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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker admits ignorance because the specific situation requiring knowledge has not happened.
In plain terms
I don't know this because I've never needed to learn it.
What can you take from it?
Knowledge often comes from necessity rather than abstract study.

Where it applies

  • making decisions
  • learning new skills
  • explaining ignorance

Putting it to work

  • learn by doing
  • prepare for possibilities

Questions to consider

  • What do you learn when needed?
  • When do you study?

Another view

Theoretical knowledge can be valuable even before application.

More from Mark Twain

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