Compare two attempts fairly
Two numbers become a useful comparison only when their conditions are known. The differences around the numbers can matter more than their size.
Read · observe · return to a useful question
Comparison Notes
A notebook about holding a question steady while a result changes.
This notebook begins with comparisons and follows the question into a few related readings. Each note introduces one distinction, gives an ordinary example and ends with an idea to carry into a small check. Use the index to choose a starting point and return to it when the question changes.
Explore the notebook
Start here
Choose a useful starting point
Delay and throughput answer different questions
A quick first reply and a fast transfer describe different parts of an experience. A single number cannot stand in for both.
Keep a useful observation
A useful observation begins with a small question. Decide which result would help answer it before choosing what to collect.
A route through this collection
The opening reading, compare two attempts fairly, introduces the main question. The next two readings offer different ways to look at it: delay and throughput answer different questions and keep a useful observation.
Each reading stands on its own and links to its neighbours. Follow the section list to a useful distinction, then return to the index when the question changes. A short record of what you observed will be more useful than reading everything at once.
Choose a note from the full index, or read how this notebook is arranged.