Short blocks with a timer (25 minutes on, 5 off), phone in another room, and a written goal for each block. Ending each session by writing the first task for tomorrow makes starting much easier. (more)

For most small apps a relational database such as MySQL, PostgreSQL or SQLite is the safer default. Your data almost always has relations (users, orders, comments) and SQL handles those well. Reach for a document store when your data really is schemaless. (more)

Usually it is under-proofing or old yeast. Let the dough rise somewhere warm until it has clearly doubled, and test your yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar: it should foam in ten minutes. (more)

Book trains early on the operators own sites, compare with long distance buses for short hops and use budget airlines only with hand luggage. Rail passes are worth it only if you move almost every day. (more)

Split it into 10 minutes of technique, 10 of chords and 10 of a song you love.  (more)

It can be fine if most days are easy and short. Beginners usually do better with three or four runs a week and one rest day after a hard effort, because bones and tendons adapt slower than your lungs. If something hurts for more than a few days, rest. Easy days easy, hard days hard. (more)

Pick Python. The syntax is readable, it runs everywhere and there is a library for almost every office task: spreadsheets, PDFs, email and web pages. Learn variables, loops, functions and files, then automate one real task you do every week. Week 1-2: basics Week 3-4: files and spreadsheets Week 5+:… (more)

A common target is three to six months of essential expenses: rent, food, insurance, transport and minimum debt payments. Start with one month, keep it in a separate easy-access savings account, and grow it before investing extra money. (more)

Rinse the rice until the water runs almost clear, then use about 1.25 cups of water per cup of long grain rice. Bring it to a boil, cover, drop to the lowest heat for 15 minutes and then leave it covered off the heat for 10 more. Do not lift the lid. (more)