Vilfredo Pareto, an Italian polymath, might be notorious for his fascist persecution, but we are still in debt to his 80/20 rule even after 100 years of his death.
What is actually the 80/20 rule
The 80/20 rule actually suggests that 80% of the outcome of any work depends on the 20% of effort that we put into it. In reverse the other 20% of our work consumes 80% of our effort. According to this theory, in our exams, 80% of the questions are based on the study materials that we give 20% of our effort to cover. The other 80% of students’ effort goes into perfecting the remaining 20% of the questions.
Sounds confusing?
Ok! Imagine yourself in a public transport where most of the passengers are quiet or minding their own business. Just then a bunch of teenagers get into the bus and start their banter. Definitely soon it would turn into a nuisance. Here even if 80% of the passengers are quiet that 20% are ruining the atmosphere.
For students this can be an important thing to keep in mind as your exam results will depend on this theory.
About 70-80% of questions are set so that all students can answer or attempt, but to achieve a better score and stand out you have to put in 100% effort.
But why would someone give their best? Why not the shortcut? Why not give just 20% to be above average? The shortcut might be the solution when you are multitasking or overwhelmed with work. Simply put, to be a jack of all trades or to find the random cause of anything, Pareto’s theory might seem enticing. But to master any task, full effort with concentration is mandatory.
In short, even if the theory suggests that by putting less effort a great reward awaits us. In order to achieve success in any work, it demands 100% from us. Students are no exception here. They might achieve mediocrity by putting 20% of efforts but to be an expert in their respective field 100% of their hard work and dedication is a must.
This theoretical myth by Pareto can be dissected by easy maths or tough philosophy. The choice is yours!!