Anyone who has taught on just about any level has heard a student or twelve whine some version of “but I worked oh-so very hard on it” after turning in a poor assignment. The student’s assumption is that putting in a great effort is tantamount to producing good work. They imagine that, upon hearing their woeful tale of travail, you will immediately raise their grade in the belief that indiscriminate exertion is the primary measure of quality.

And, let’s face it, we have all thought or said that the key to success is to work harder, but that claim, however heartfelt, is misleading.

99% PERSPIRATION - 1% INSPIRATION < GREAT SUCCESS

Here is the worst-kept dirty secret you already know. Effort, as quantifiable as it may be, is in no way a measure of quality.

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