shortcut; shorter route
Refers to a path or method that is quicker than the usual one. Can be used literally for roads and figuratively for procedures.
Taking this shortcut is the fastest way to the station.
There is no shortcut to success.
Compound of 早 (はや, 'fast, early') and 道 (みち, 'road, way'). The reading はやみち is a straightforward combination of the two elements.