The author recounts their experience reporting errors in Donald Knuth’s The Art of Computer Programming volumes and receiving reward checks for their contributions. Knuth responded promptly to their emails, providing handwritten notes in pencil along with checks for their findings. The author highlights errors in Algorithm X and unused variables, with Knuth graciously rewarding them for their assistance in correcting these mistakes. An interesting anecdote is shared regarding a misreferenced French article, which led Knuth to recommend a volume about Egyptian poetry. The author expresses admiration for Knuth’s commitment to precision and looks forward to further contributing to the improvement of his work.
https://glthr.com/discovering-errors-in-donald-knuths-taocp