in software development always have two ideas

start with the first idea. if all the key aspects are not working by half way through the allotted time, set that code aside and try the second idea.

• if the task is simple and well known this isn't necessary.
• this generally applies when you know there is one thing that will be intractable. it may be a new code library, a difficult algorithm, or something like database or threads.
• if you are tempted to go back to the first code and it won't budge, delete the first effort completely. Burn the ships on the distant shore and move on.
• if you are stuck, ask for help. should be obvious, but you know us. set a time limit, like 15 minutes.

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