We often think that attending lectures will automatically lead to good grades, but the reality is quite the opposite. Practice makes perfect. Lectures should be seen as an introduction to the tools you can use to hone your skills, but it’s the exercises and application of knowledge that truly teach us how to use those tools effectively.
Think of it this way: if I show you how to use a hammer, you’ll understand its basic function. But if I hand you the hammer and ask you to hammer a nail into something, you’ll begin to expand on that knowledge and use the hammer in various ways. If I only explain what a hammer is, you might end up using it for everything—just like the classic metaphor.
How many people are afraid to use a screwdriver? It’s not just about knowing it exists; it’s about realizing the purpose and value of a screwdriver compared to a hammer. To use a screwdriver, you need more tools—like screws, plugs, and a drill. But once you understand how to use these tools, the result is far better than trying to hammer a nail into a concrete wall.
This is just as true in learning as it is in craftsmanship. You need to learn to use the tools properly before you can achieve the desired results. This doesn’t come from passive observation, but from hands-on experience. The real mastery comes when you apply what you’ve learned, and that’s how you build true expertise.
What tools have you been neglecting in your own learning? Maybe it’s time to pick them up and start practicing!