In general, thorough diagramming is the only way to finish a game on time. It may seem like it's taking a long time, but you will see that it is worth it when you breeze through the questions.
When I took on this game, I didn't go quite as far as Naz did in the video. I stopped at that first diagram and recognized the three open spots, two of which must contain L and M. This part is critical, and there is no way to finish the game on time without that initial setup. I felt that I understood this well enough, and didn't need to put everything on paper. We have to make new diagrams for certain questions anyway.
I was able to get away with it here, but I generally prefer to take Naz' approach. If I can narrow a game down to 4 or fewer options, I will diagram them ahead of time. What do I mean by 4 or fewer options? I'll explain in regard to this game.
We have three spots available for M and L. Q: _ _ S: K _
They could both be in Q. 1. Q: L M S: K _
Or
2. Q: M _ S: K L
Or
3. Q: L _ S: K M
Every single possibility must have one of these 3 basic distributions of L and M. Having them written down ahead of time will help you to see your options and eliminate wrong answers. For this question, the most important thing was to understand that at least one spot in Q must be reserved for L or M. I figured this out without writing down all three options, but it won't be so easy on other games.
As you practice diagramming, you will become faster and more confident in what you've written down. In short, it is better to over-diagram in your practice rather than under-diagram. You can focus on your speed and develop your own strategies after you are comfortable making diagrams. You will get a better idea of what you do and do not need to represent visually as you get more experience.
TimBJanuary 31, 2020
Very helpful. Thank you!
RaviJanuary 31, 2020
@TimB, let us know if you have any other questions!
