I remember a time when a maths instructor was horribly upset with the entire class and gave an assignment wherein the correct answer was required (else flunk the course). Since I'd been slacking I had no clue as to how to attack the challenge---but I did have a computer! Wrote code until the wee hours and until I finally understood what in hell was going on. At the point the solution was obvious (at least to my new found vantage point) so I wrote it up and turned it in, one of two who actually solved the silly thing. He didn't flunk anyone, as he had calmed down but it was a fun ride while it lasted!