Art Quote by Joseph Priestley
“It is known to all persons who are conversant in experimental philosophy, that there are many little attentions and precautions necessary to be observed in the conducting of experiments, which cannot well be described in words, but which it is needless to describe, since practice will necessarily suggest them; though, like all other arts in which the hands and fingers are made use of, it is only much practice that can enable a person to go through complex experiments, of this or any kind, with ease and readiness.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Thoughts on Experiments, 1767
Practical skill in experiments comes from hands‑on practice, not just written instructions; experience teaches the subtle attentions needed for success.
In simple terms: Practice, not just reading, teaches experimental skill.
Key Takeaway
Spend time doing experiments to learn the details.
Themes
experimentation
practice
skill
learning
methodology
Mood
focused
inquisitive
determined
Type
instructional
reflective
practical
When to use this quote
- laboratory work
- field research
- DIY projects
- skill training
Key Concepts
hands‑on learning
procedural knowledge
expertise
Questions to Reflect On
- What subtle skills have you learned only by doing?
- How can you improve practical learning in your field?
A Different Perspective
Written guides can’t capture every nuance; mentorship may be needed.
![“[The doctrine of air] I was led into in consequence of inhabiting a house adjoining to a public brewery, where I at first amused myself with making experiments on the fixed air [carbon dioxide] which I found ready made in the process of fermentation . When I removed from that house I was under the…” quote by Joseph Priestley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/42a/joseph-priestley-17782_air_the-doctrine-of-air-i-was-led-into-in-co_74416.jpg)
![“But it is not given to every electrician to die in so glorious a manner as the justly envied Richmann. [G. W. Richmann died from being hit by lightning, which he had been investigating.]” quote by Joseph Priestley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/03c/joseph-priestley-17782_death_but-it-is-not-given-to-every-electrician_183667.jpg)
