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Connections

Connections happen when

  1. 2 rules can be combined into 1 without losing any information, and/or
  2. a rule has secret implications.

Look for connections if you see

  • the same element in multiple rules
  • elements limited in where they can go

Terminology Note

You may have heard connections called "inferences" elsewhere.

Connection

Rule 1: A is next to B == (AB)

Rule 2: B is before C == B-C

Connection 1 (combination): (AB)-C

Connection 2 (implication): C can't go first or second

Connection 3 (implication): A and B cannot go last

Not a connection

Rule 1 (alt): A is exactly one space away from B == (A_B)

Rule 2: B is before C == B-C

If you try to connect them, like (A_B)-C then you will lose important information. (A_B)-C wrongly makes it seem like C can't come in between A and B

The benefits of making connections are clear to most students. The additional information gained can help you answer questions more quickly.

Connections are magic

When you see connections it feels wonderful, but you can't force it.

Connections are rarely revealed by staring harder at the game.

Make hypos to reveal connections

Personally, I see connections more easily once I start playing the game.

As I answer a few questions and make a few hypos, I notice that some of the rules tend to go together or that some rules limit the game more than others.

Suggested flashcards

When you spot a connection, especially if you missed that connection at first, consider making a flashcard to help you spot that type of connection more easily next time.

For example, you could generalize from the (AB)-C connections mentioned above to make these two flashcards:

1: What are some order rules love to connect? / solid clouds + relatives

2: What does the rule A-B imply? / A can't go last & B can't go first