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Comment by scottbez1

3 days ago

How do I use a laptop while standing on a train each day? It sounds like a laptop is sufficient for you, but I suspect (based on myself and other responses in this thread) that a laptop is not always viable for many people; this tutorial appears targeted toward those people.

I’ve actually considered a neck/shoulder support for a laptop in the past but decided against it because it’d be cumbersome and make me a theft target.

As for AI, personally speaking I use AI coding tools to allow me to continue enjoying some hobby side projects with less free time available with a kid. It’s been a massive boost to my happiness in a generally low stakes area. I’m curious to see if I can get a similar unlock on my short and interrupted commute times as well, which is why I (personally) find this article interesting.

dont try to code while standing on a train. one of many antpatterns a wise engineer should learn to avoid, as part of polishing our craft. also: dont juggle chainsaws, etc ;-)

  • but also dont try coding on a laptop. use a proper desktop, or better yet, get time on a mainframe. the problem has been solved forever, juat do work from the workplace at a dedicated terminal, built for doing that work at.

    • Not coding on a laptop is actually good advice?! My argument would be that you shouldn't be doing any work without plugging your laptop into a full size keyboard and mouse at least. And, ideally, at least one external display of some form (I recommend 2 or 3, but it depends on exact setup/total resolution/etc.). But it's your body, not mine.

      Regarding terminals, how often does this requirement occur in practice? Assuming it does, you can probably use your laptop for it, in which case, see above.

    • groan HN needs a mute/block feature so we can mute/block folks like you. toxic. get a life