Many times it is not possible for us to start the contest since its starting time and we only become free in the middle of the contest. In such a case we suffer a large penalty time if we start the contest since the middle. While on some sites like topcoder the time-penalty depends only on the opening and solving time of the problem. Would it be possible to have a feature like that on Codeforces too ?
Smells like a cheat :)
Everyone knows that it would be too easy to cheat in such a feature and that's why I was expecting some answer on whether or not it would be possible to use such a feature and take care of the drawbacks of it . Unfortunately the only answer on this thread is that by a judgemental bitch.
It's one of the most things I dislike about topcoder...being able to spot problems you can solve quickly ( easy for you does not mean necessary easy for another people and vice-versa) is a skill in itself.
I know problems are arranged gradually, but I've seen many times that B is easier than A, or C easier than B. (and many times did not spot this during contest before it's too late) Being able to spot this should be rewarded, especially since you are taking a risk by attempting a more difficult problem.
Also keep in mind that this will introduce the idea of multiple accounts and cheating. It's much better leaving the current system as it is.