Learn As I Learn

Student Profile: Quick Draws

It’s good to know about the different types of students you might come across in your academic career. Some are easier to tolerate than others. Some are rare, and can only be seen in their natural environments: math class.

I am speaking of a rare breed called the quick draw.

I have never come across such a creature in a non-math-related course, hence my fascination.

Quick draws are a subcategory of the genus called Genius (so named not because of the actual intelligence of the breed, but the desired perception of the genus’ subjects).

Geniuses can be found in all areas of academic life, noted for their efforts to impress peers and teachers with their intelligence.

Profile of a Quick Draw

There is no typical behavior that can be noted to the quick draw, for some put on an act of boredom and some revel in their enthusiasm for math. However, one common characteristic is that they all answer questions posed by the teacher in record time as if there is a competition.

How to Deal With a Quick Draw When Encountered

First off, don’t be afraid if you encounter a quick draw! Remain calm and don’t make any quick movements, for it may be perceived as a challenge.

If a quick draw is competing unopposed, you have three options:

1. You can ignore the subject.
2. You can challenge the subject, causing possible confusion or distress to them (unless you are slow and the quick draw’s talents are validated).
3. You can keep score to amuse yourself (Quick draw: 11, Imaginary Competition: 0).

Be aware that quick draws are not common, but you should be prepared in case one infiltrates your math class. Knowing more about them increases our ability to communicate with them and learn from our differences.