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Basic research is like shooting an arrow in the air and…

“Basic research is like shooting an arrow in the air and, where it lands, painting a target.” quote by Homer Burton Adkins
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“Basic research is like shooting an arrow in the air and, where it lands, painting a target.”

Homer Burton Adkins

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Basic research is aimless until its impact is later defined and targeted.

In simple terms: Research aims, then finds purpose.

Key Takeaway

Value exploratory work, then steer it.

Themes

science exploration purpose

Mood

analytical motivational

Type

Air:0 Arrows:0 Basic research:1 Business:0 Goals:1 Land:0 Painting:0 Research:1 Science:0 Shooting:0 Statistics:0 Target:1 Like Shooting:0 Research Like:0 Shooting Arrow:0 Painting Target:0

When to use this quote

  • grant proposals
  • product development
  • academic studies
  • strategic planning

Key Concepts

innovation methodology goal‑setting

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you align research with goals?
  • When should direction shift?
A Different Perspective

Aimless work can waste resources.

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