The Bad Test Framework
Identify & Avoid
The Bad Test Framework is a mental model that helps individuals recognize and avoid 'bad tests' - situations where success is determined by hacking or gaming the system rather than by doing good work. This framework is based on the idea that many people are trained to succeed in a system that values grades, competition, and authority, but that this training can be limiting and lead to unfulfilling careers. By recognizing and avoiding bad tests, individuals can focus on doing good work and creating value, rather than just trying to succeed in a flawed system.
- Success should be based on doing good work, not just hacking or gaming the system.
- Authority and grades are not always a good measure of a person's abilities or potential.
- Doing good work and creating value is more important than just trying to succeed in a flawed system.
- Recognize Bad TestsIdentify situations where success is determined by hacking or gaming the system rather than by doing good work. This can include things like grades, competition, and authority.Pro tipAsk yourself if the test or evaluation is truly measuring what it claims to be measuring.WarningBe careful not to confuse bad tests with good tests - just because a test is difficult or challenging does not mean it is a bad test.
- Avoid Bad TestsOnce you have recognized a bad test, try to avoid it or find ways to work around it. This can include things like finding alternative paths to success or creating your own opportunities.Pro tipFocus on doing good work and creating value, rather than just trying to succeed in a flawed system.WarningBe prepared for resistance or pushback from others who are invested in the status quo.
- Create Good TestsInstead of trying to hack or game the system, focus on creating good tests - situations where success is determined by doing good work and creating value. This can include things like creating your own projects or starting your own business.Pro tipFocus on creating value and doing good work, rather than just trying to succeed.WarningBe careful not to create bad tests - make sure that your evaluations and assessments are truly measuring what they claim to be measuring.
In the startup world, success is often determined by doing good work and creating value, rather than by hacking or gaming the system. Startups that focus on creating value and doing good work are more likely to succeed than those that try to hack or game the system.
The education system is often criticized for being a bad test - a system where success is determined by grades and competition, rather than by doing good work and creating value. However, there are also examples of good tests in the education system, such as project-based learning and competency-based progression.
The author, Paul Graham, developed this framework through his own experiences and observations of the education system and the startup world. He realized that many people are trained to succeed in a system that values grades, competition, and authority, but that this training can be limiting and lead to unfulfilling careers.