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Anatomy Quote by W. Somerset Maugham

“You will have to learn many tedious things,...which you will forget the moment you have passed your final examination, but in anatomy it is better to have learned and lost than never to have learned at all.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“You will have to learn many tedious things,...which you will forget the moment you have passed your final examination, but in anatomy it is better to have learned and lost than never to have learned at all.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Book: Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham, 1915

Learning seemingly useless details can be valuable because the process builds mental habits and familiarity, even if specific facts fade.

In simple terms: Even forgotten facts help train the mind.

Key Takeaway

Embrace learning for its own sake.

Themes

education memory growth

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • medical school
  • language study
  • skill acquisition
  • exam preparation

Key Concepts

cognitive development learning mindset

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does the act of learning shape your thinking?
  • Do you value process over outcome?
A Different Perspective

If the knowledge never resurfaces, the effort may feel wasted.

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