How to Use Snapshots

As we design Snapshots we are taking pains to make the theory of computation accessible to all levels and types of learners. To help you take the right path, we have followed the lead of the ski resorts by color coding the various paths.

Watch for the green circle, , representing the easiest way through, intended for beginners to the theory of computation and those who just like to examine the underlying concepts in more detail.

The blue square, , is the route for intermediate practitioners, or for those who are comfortable learning the material at a bit faster pace.

Black diamonds, , mark the paths for for advanced learners or the intrepid. Especially challenging sections are marked with multiple diamonds, as in .

You might be wondering just what the differences are. Well, you could just poke around to find out for yourself.

In general, though, the green route will include lots of intuitive explanations of the theory and lots of examples. Necessary mathematics will be developed gently and with lots of guidance. There will also be links that let you continue exploring the material even further at the simplest level if you are still uncomfortable with it.

The blue route will dispense with lengthy descriptions, although some intuition will be given as well as a number of examples along the way.

The black route will be devoid of all but a few examples and the theory will be expressed primarily through mathematical notation.

In general if you are a novice, use the green route on your first runs. As you review, you may find the blue routes to be most helpful. Once your comfort level with mathematics matures, or once you become an old hand at this, you will probably find the black route enough to refresh your skills on a reread.

Good luck, and happy trails!