Premature Optimization

The cluster discusses the pitfalls of premature optimization in programming, repeatedly referencing Donald Knuth's quote that 'premature optimization is the root of all evil' and debating when optimization is necessary versus wasteful.

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Keywords

e.g CPU OK youtu.be TLDR i.e PR E.g optimization premature root performance evil optimize optimized code knuth 97

Sample Comments

okareaman Dec 5, 2020 View on HN

Don't forget "Premature optimization is the root of all evil"

smabie Jul 19, 2021 View on HN

It's premature optimization and not worth the time to even think about.

29athrowaway Mar 1, 2023 View on HN

Premature optimization is often a bad idea.

rhizome Jul 12, 2012 View on HN

You're describing a premature optimization. Performing poorly is better than not performing at all.

schwartzworld Aug 16, 2020 View on HN

you're being a little hyperbolic. haven't you ever heard of premature optimization?

marcellus23 Mar 1, 2022 View on HN

Yeah, this seems like a classic case of optimization for optimization's sake.

steamer25 Sep 25, 2009 View on HN

"We should forget about small efficiencies, say about 97% of the time: premature optimization is the root of all evil." --Knuth

scrapheap Jul 19, 2022 View on HN

Sorry, I must be missing something as I can't see what you're saying that's different to don't optimize prematurely.

notyourday Feb 7, 2020 View on HN

That's premature optimization.

delinka Jun 20, 2011 View on HN

Premature optimization and all that.