RE: The Rob Malda Rule:

[jdube]

I have a C++ class that teaches the whiteboard way. The one who knows the most about computer(me, even though I hate C++ and never use it) and the kid that knows the least in the class about computers(all names faked to protect the not-so-innocent) is doing the best. How sad is this?

[Anonymous Monk]

IMHO, it's certainly unnecessary to work out your *code* on a whiteboard (or similar).

However, if you are doing anything with complicated data structures, it is beyond useful to work them out in detail before you start using them.

This is especially true if someone else has to read or write your data structures.

"Show me your flowcharts and conceal your tables and I will remain mystified; show me your tables, and I won't need your flowcharts, because they will be obvious." -- St. Brooks