3 ms·

Is it easier to use? Or just it just look pretty to a subset of people?

• generalizations 5y ago
  It's easier. There's a reason we use 'y = mx + b' instead of 'range = slope * domain + intercept' when we're doing math calculations. It's nice to use the long form when we're learning what the symbols are, but the symbols enhance readability when you're doing math, once you've become familiar with the meaning of the terms.
  • didibus 5y ago
    I'd be tempted to challenge this assertion. It made sense when handwriting to maximize for not having to spend too much time writing, but with modern auto-complete, I might start to believe that it be clearer to use the long form for everyone, yes even for a person familiar with mathematics. If all math was rewritten long form, I feel it would honestly have second order effect on approachability and being able to understand papers even from other mathematicians.
    • patrick451 5y ago
      Hard disagree. Just reading 'range = slope * domain + intercept' is tedious and takes 10 times as long.
      • deeviant 5y ago
        Hard disagree. Because tedious and long is absolutely orthogonal to "easier to understand". There is a reason why one letter/number variables are basically verboten in best practice.