A front page article in today’s Washington Post focuses on a new report from NCTM that attempts to solve a tough mathematical problem: too much math. It seems that as states and the feds have pushed for greater proficiency, the math curriculum has widened while mastery has weakened. Students have been exposed to lots of concepts, but aren’t able to use them.
NCTM's solution? Apply Hampton’s Law.
The article doesn’t specifically mention my law by name, but rest assured, that is what is being described (see the fifth paragraph of the Post article). Those of you who have been clients should be able to recite Hampton’s Law in detail. (3 x 3 = 1 or 2 or 3; 9 x 1 = 0) But for the unfamiliar reader, the essence is this: Maximum communication is realized when the number of messages is kept to three, each being reinforced by memorable detail or actions and repetition.
Key point: If you want your listeners to remember and act upon what you say (during interviews, presentations, meetings, and when giving instructions), apply Hampton’s Law.
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