English has and uses a lot of idioms in daily conversations and business meetings. 
Here we look at a handful ( a small amount) of idioms used to describe knowledge.

I like and use these 3 idioms.

When I want my students or a team to brainstorm ( combine their ideas verbally) I ask them to put on their thinking caps and share their thoughts.


Some students or team members are well educated and have a lot of knowledge from studying however they aren't always very practical. They might struggle to apply their knowledge in a way that works in real life. The logistics of the actions needed as posed to the theory of how we could do something. I might say that these students are book smart but are lacking in common sense. In the UK we often joke that common sense isn't very common. Common sense can also be referred to as a form of critical or logical thinking rather than theoretical. 

I have often been heard to say "It's not rocket science" meaning Google it as I'm sure you could do it yourself. Watch some YouTube videos and read some top tips beforehand and it will be possible for you too. What I'm saying is that I'm not special. I managed to work out how to do it so why can't you? Do some research, be brave and try. 

Here are two more that I like. 

I was born in London as were most of my family members however my teenage years were spent in the countryside. My family shared their city life street smarts with me to keep me safe in busy places and encouraged me to stay safe in rural quiet places too by using my street smarts For example, not looking lost, not talking to strangers and not showing, the people around you, your valuables i.e money. These days it is still very important to be aware of people around you that might cause you harm. I'm very lucky to live in a safe place now but I still keep my valuables close, consider who I speak to and what I say to them. If I go to an unfamiliar place I do my best not to get lost or to look lost when I don't have a clue where to go next. 

When you, don't have a clue, what do you do? 

Check your phone apps. 
Research online. 
Ask a friend.
Ask someone working nearby.

Whatever you choose to do try not to make yourself more vulnerable. If the person helping you speaks too fast or confuses you ask them to speak slower or find someone else to help you. 

Knowing what you are planning to do and how you will do it is a big part of effective street smarts. 

Can you logically work out which idioms match which meanings below? Remember it's not rocket science if you google it. 

If you are still struggling book a lesson and I will help you. 

Best wishes,
Thirzah