Your Funniest Moment When Distracted by a Hard Problem

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The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of "tunnel vision" experienced by individuals deeply engaged in complex problem-solving across various fields such as math, physics, and engineering. Participants share humorous anecdotes illustrating how intense focus can lead to amusing and sometimes dangerous situations. One contributor recounts nearly falling down stairs while reading data, highlighting the need for caution when multitasking. Others share lighter stories, such as mistakenly attempting to empty a water jug into a trash can or confusing a microwave with a copier while preparing lunch. The conversation also touches on the stress of critical calculations and the mental fog that can accompany long hours of work, leading to forgetfulness or mistakes in everyday tasks. Overall, the thread captures the relatable experiences of professionals who become so absorbed in their work that they lose touch with their surroundings, often resulting in comical mishaps.
  • #31
Evo said:
Sorry Berkeman, we've hijacked your thread, I should split these posts into a separate thread.
No worries. It was an enjoyable hijack, and the original theme of the thread had mostly run its course. :smile:
 
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  • #32
Here's a few cheaters, BTW (I'm assuming you know how to read this):

  1. The last line could be, "She named me Matilda";
  2. The uncertainty is half the point; and
  3. The narrator doesn't know themselves (and doesn't think it's relevant).

I skipped the obvious one. Anyone who didn't get that far wouldn't get the hints in any case.
 

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