When to Abandon a Bad Learning Resource

Not every book, course, or teacher is right for you, and recognizing that distinction matters. If after genuine effort — at least three or four sessions — a resource consistently leaves you more confused than when you started, the problem may not be you. Some resources are badly structured, assume the wrong audience, or simply explain things poorly. There's no honor in suffering through a bad textbook when a better one exists.

Give it a fair chance first. The early confusion in any new subject is normal and doesn't mean the resource is bad. But if the pattern persists — if every session feels like pushing through mud with no forward movement — switch without guilt. The goal is learning, not loyalty to a particular book or instructor. Find a resource that matches how your brain works, and the same material that felt impenetrable will suddenly make sense.