h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Entry: How to Get Through a Maze - A4005622
Author: Bagpuss - U152404

This is an update of A860456. There were a few bits that were wrong or misleading. Also, I've added a bit of an introduction and lengthened a couple of bits.

I considered mentioning Markov chains in the bit about random wandering, but I like the way it reads as is.

Comments? Criticism? Praise? Abuse?

Nice job

As you're updating an existing Entry, you shoud credit the original author and editor by adding them to the researcher list:

U182547
U188050

Whups, I could have sworn I did that. I bet I forgot to click "Set Researchers".

Yep - been there..!

I must say I am honoured for one of my articles to be re-worked. Looking back at the old version, it does seem rather... shallow.

After studying your new entry I have but one point to make - your first superscript about getting to the center, rather than an outside wall. Even in these mazes, there is always a second, short path, leading right out of the maze (few expect you to, after completing the maze, do it all again backwards to get out) and so the "left hand method" will just lead the maze-doer down this exit path.

Bar this, a great rework. I especially like the parts about Ikea and Bull-headed creatures.

Keep up the good work.

Oh, hi. I thought you were long gone from the site, otherwise I'd have left a message for you about this.

The Posting to which you are replying is from Chidiok d'Vas
I must say I am honoured for one of my articles to be re-worked. Looking back at the old version, it does seem rather... shallow.

"Even in these mazes, there is always a second, short path, leading right out of the maze (few expect you to, after completing the maze, do it all again backwards to get out) and so the "left hand method" will just lead the maze-doer down this exit path."

I'm sorry, I can't agree there. Have a look at this page: http://www.gwydir.demon.co.uk/jo/maze/branch.htm . It shows a number of mazes with goal in the middle, but none have a short alternative path.

Thanks for your vote of confidence.

Hullo!

No worries - I was long gone but pop by now and again on a whim. As the Dilbert line goes - I doubt I have any knowledge worth sharing. You are forgiven for your lack of communication .

As for the mazes with the goal in the middle, i'm afraid I must concede defeat, coupled with some form of non-commital wimpering noise about Hampton Court being silly.

Keep up the good work.

Would I be right in thinking this is now ready to become the update?

Well I think so.

Marvellous - that's now updated and listed on the Front Page. Any further corrections can be put through Editorial Feedback.

Many thanks for this - a lovely entry!

Most of the work was already done, but a few inaccuracies were niggling at me.