Some Common Laws of Research

[written by: the internet]

1. When you don't know what you're doing, do it neatly.
2. First draw your curves, then plot your data.
4. A record of data is essential, it shows you were working.
6. To study a subject best, understand it thoroughly before you start.
7. If you can't get the answer in the usual manner, start at the answer and derive the question.
9. If that doesn't work, start at both ends and try to find a common middle.
10. In case of doubt, make it sound convincing.
11. Do not believe in miracles---rely on them.
12. Team work is essential. It allows you to blame someone else.

RULE OF ACCURACY
When working toward the solution of a problem, it always helps if you know the answer

RULE OF FAILURE
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you have tried.

RULE OF REASON
If nobody uses it, there's a reason.

Wiener'S LAW OF LIBRARIES
There are no answers, only cross references

Murphy's LAW OF RESEARCH
Enough research will tend to support you theory.

Finally: No experiment is ever a complete failure. It can serve as a bad example.