TfT #2 / Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

TfT 2 / Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

Reading has been around for 5400 years, since its invention along with writing. And yet, the way we read hasn't changed much since then. The average person reads at a speed of 250 words per minute (wpm), which has remained consistent over time. However, with advancements in technology, there are now tools available to help us read more efficiently and effectively.

One such tool is the meta-book "How to Read a Book" by Mortimer Adler. In this book, Adler introduces different reading techniques, including inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading. Each technique is designed to help readers extract maximum value from the text and comprehend the material better.

In addition to these reading techniques, there is also the concept of social reading. Social reading involves the use of plugins and platforms that allow readers to engage with others while reading. This trend is on the rise and shows no signs of slowing down. The idea behind social reading is that by collaborating with others, readers can gain new insights and perspectives on the material, enhancing their overall reading experience.

To further enhance the reading experience, there are tools like Glasp curators that act as filters. These curators help readers discover new and relevant content based on their interests and preferences. By leveraging these tools, readers can optimize their reading time and focus on the material that matters most to them.

When it comes to startups and venture capital deals, there are also important lessons to be learned. Seed-stage investments tend to have more extreme returns compared to later rounds. This is because startups tend to experience faster growth in their early stages, and these higher growth rates have more time to compound at the seed stage.

To avoid missing out on the best seed deal, the simplest strategy is to invest in every credible deal. Simulations have shown that even investors with skill in picking deals have a low chance of beating the index. By broadening the investment portfolio to include all credible deals, investors can increase their expected return and mitigate the risk of missing out on a potentially lucrative opportunity.

Furthermore, analyzing thousands of VC deals has revealed that a startup's growth drops off in its second year of funding and continues to decrease from there. This finding highlights the importance of early-stage investments and the potential for higher returns during the initial years of a startup's life.

In conclusion, while reading may be an ancient practice, there are now tools and techniques available to upgrade this 5400-year-old technology. By incorporating reading techniques such as inspectional, analytical, and synoptical reading, readers can improve their comprehension and extract more value from the material. Additionally, leveraging social reading platforms and tools like Glasp curators can enhance the reading experience by connecting readers with like-minded individuals and relevant content. In the startup and venture capital world, investing in every credible seed deal can increase expected returns and mitigate the risk of missing out on a potential success story. Furthermore, understanding the growth patterns of startups can guide investment decisions and optimize returns. So, whether it's upgrading our reading skills or making informed investment choices, there are actionable steps we can take to level up in these areas.