[AnimalMuppet]

Don't knock crystallized intelligence.

In my 20s, I could learn a programming language in a weekend by reading a book. I could write code fast. I could figure out bugs. I felt so fast and so smart.

In my 40s and 50s, I looked back at that guy with some amusement. Sure, I didn't type as fast. But I spent a lot less time debugging because I wrote it right the first time, because I could just see what the right thing do to was. Net result was that I produced working code in less time. 48 might have been my peak year.

[FooBarWidget]

Are you sure you really learn slower in your 40s due to biological decline? I have the feeling my lower speed is mostly due to circumstances: too many life responsibilities and too little focus time.

[micromacrofoot]

agreed, I may learn slower as I age... but I spend a lot less time making stupid mistakes as I do it