# Systematic Study Before Practical Work by Wilbur Wright > “I am about to begin a systematic study of the subject in preparation for practical work to which I expect to devote what time I can spare from my regular business.” > **— Wilbur Wright**, *Simple Reminders on Real American Pride* ## Sources and Context - **Direct or authoritative text:** [Letter from Wilbur Wright to the Smithsonian Institution, May 30, 1899 — Smithsonian Institution Archives](https://siarchives.si.edu/history/featured-topics/stories/letter-dated-may-30-1899) - **Series source and editorial context:** [[american/American Ethos - Simple Reminders on Real American Pride|Simple Reminders on Real American Pride]] — entry 048, “Systematic Study Before Practical Work.” - **Why it belongs:** Ambition is disciplined by study, preparation, and practical work. ## Related Articles and Collections - **Collection:** [[collections/Simple Reminders|Simple Reminders]] - **Collection:** [[collections/American|American Collection]] - **Series source:** [[american/American Ethos - Simple Reminders on Real American Pride|Simple Reminders on Real American Pride]] - **American route:** [[american/American Ethos - Operational Literacy|Operational Literacy]] - **American route:** [[american/American Character - Value 02 - Competence|Competence]] ## Related Topics - [[wiki/American Exploration|American Exploration]] ## Share on Social Media ``` “I am about to begin a systematic study of the subject in preparation for practical work to which I expect to devote what time I can spare from my regular business.” — Wilbur Wright, Simple Reminders on Real American Pride https://bryantmcgill.com/simple-reminders-real-american-pride-048-systematic-study-before-practical-work ```