My tiny spreadsheet

I track date, puzzle name, difficulty, piece count, time, and one note about what slowed me down. It takes 30 seconds and pays off fast.

What I learn from it

• I'm slower on city night scenes; I now sort neon signs first.
• My second attempt on the same puzzle is 20-30% faster.
• When I skip logging, I repeat mistakes.

You don't need a fancy app. A simple sheet or notebook is enough-just be consistent for one week and look for patterns.

Extended reflections

The log started as a curiosity and turned into my best coach. The numbers do not lie; they show when I rush, when I stall, and when I improve. I used to blame a slow time on a "hard image," but the log showed the real cause: I skipped edges or changed zoom mid-run.

I also use the log to pick my next puzzle. If I see three straight hard runs, I schedule an easy one to recover. If I see a big time drop, I replay that puzzle to confirm it was real progress. The log makes my practice intentional instead of random.

Most importantly, logging keeps the hobby honest. I can celebrate good days because I have evidence, and I can spot bad habits before they become permanent. That little spreadsheet turns puzzles into a story of improvement, not just a string of sessions.