The Importance of Tacit Knowledge and the Power of Reading in Skill Acquisition

The Importance of Tacit Knowledge and the Power of Reading in Skill Acquisition

Introduction:
When it comes to skill acquisition, many people focus on deliberate practice and cognitive bias research. However, there is another aspect that is often overlooked - tacit knowledge. Understanding tacit knowledge can be a game-changer in one's quest for expertise. In this article, we will explore why tacit knowledge is more important than deliberate practice and how reading plays a significant role in acquiring knowledge and skills.

What is Tacit Knowledge and How Does it Work?
Tacit knowledge refers to the unspoken, intuitive understanding of a skill or expertise. It is knowledge that is difficult to codify or put into words, making it challenging to teach explicitly. Tacit knowledge is acquired through imitation, emulation, and apprenticeship. By observing and copying the actions of a master, one can internalize the principles behind those actions. It is a process of learning through osmosis, where the embodied feelings necessary for successful execution of a skill are absorbed.

The Illusion of Explicit Knowledge:
When we try to convert tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge, we often end up with long lists of caveats and exceptions. This is because tacit knowledge is nuanced and complex, requiring instantaneous judgment and decision-making based on multiple considerations. Trying to break it down into a set of procedures denies learners the ability to build expertise and hinders their creative problem-solving abilities. Instead, the focus should be on gaining tacit knowledge directly, rather than hoping for a breakthrough in making it explicit.

The Power of Emulation and Apprenticeship:
To acquire tacit knowledge, one must seek out a master in their field and work under their guidance for a considerable period. Through emulation, feedback, and continuous learning, the learner can absorb the ropes of the skill. This process of tacit knowledge acquisition is far more effective than deliberate practice, especially in fields like music, math, and chess. Deliberate practice can only take one so far, while tacit knowledge allows for a deeper understanding and ability to balance various considerations effortlessly.

The Importance of Reading in Skill Acquisition:
Reading remains the most efficient way to consume and capture information, making it an invaluable tool in skill acquisition. Whether it's news, books, or even tweets, reading exposes us to a wealth of knowledge and ideas. Information is the most valuable asset in the world, and reading allows us to tap into this vast reservoir. By reading extensively, we can broaden our perspectives, gain insights, and enhance our understanding of various subjects.

The Role of Reading in Daily Life:
Many successful individuals attribute their achievements to their reading habits. For instance, Warren Buffet spends about 80% of his working day reading. Reading on different devices at different times of the day allows for a seamless integration of knowledge into one's routine. Whether it's an iPad in the morning, an iPhone in the afternoon, or a Kindle at night, reading can become a regular part of one's life.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace Tacit Knowledge: Recognize the value of tacit knowledge and shift your focus from seeking explicit instructions to learning through emulation and apprenticeship. Find a master in your field and absorb their wisdom through observation and practice.

2. Read Widely: Make reading a priority in your daily routine. Set aside dedicated time for reading and explore a variety of sources to expose yourself to diverse perspectives and information.

3. Seek Tacit Knowledge Resources: Look for published research on tacit knowledge to gain insights and strategies for acquiring expertise. Explore fields that study tacit knowledge to uncover valuable tools for skill acquisition.

Conclusion:
In the pursuit of expertise, it is essential to understand the significance of tacit knowledge and the power of reading. Tacit knowledge, acquired through emulation and apprenticeship, allows for intuitive problem-solving and creative thinking. Reading, on the other hand, remains the most efficient way to consume and capture information, providing a wealth of knowledge to enhance our skills. By embracing tacit knowledge and incorporating reading into our daily lives, we can accelerate our journey towards mastery in our respective fields.