The Art of Thinking Rationally. Shortcuts in Mathematics and Life

It is commonly believed that the key to success is hard work. But true success does not come from it — it comes from shortcuts: shorter and at the same time easier, faster, and more convenient ways of solving various tasks. Thanks to such rational paths, we achieve remarkable results. And according to one of the greatest mathematicians in the world, Marcus du Sautoy, mathematics is a true art of shortcuts and the best means of saving time. Each of us can make our lives more comfortable with the help of a few shortcuts.
«You have a choice. There is an obvious route that is long and exhausting, where you won't see anything beautiful along the way. The journey will take a lot of time and leave you completely drained, but sooner or later you will still reach your destination. But there is another road. Finding where it branches off the main path is not easy — it seems that it takes you away from the goal, rather than bringing you closer to it. But then you notice a sign that says “shortcut.” It promises a quick passage through rough terrain that will allow you to reach your goal in less time and with minimal effort. The choice is yours. This book guides you along the second path. It is your shortcut to better thinking that you will need to navigate this unconventional route and get exactly where you want to go».(Marcus du Sautoy)