[quadcore]

Here is what I don't do:

1. Read some code

2. Try to understand how it works

3. Repeat

Here is what I do:

1. Try to figure out what the code might be in advance using the information you have. (For example: I know nothing but the fact that it's a spreadsheet. Then figure out in your mind how the basics of a spreadsheet might work.)

2. Now read a little bit of the code. Compare with what you were thinking. If it matches, go to 3. If it doesnt match, figure out why by reading the code and by thinking more.

3. Repeat

Note the two processes are relatively similar because step 2 of the former process is a little bit like step 1 of the later process. Just try to focus on figuring out first, read second. Figure out first, read second. It's an active approach which makes you work more, and the more you work, the faster you go - or some benefits of that sort.

I actually wonder if people do that.