Comment by nicce

> Always keep in mind that sometimes the only difference between yourself and the person writing the book/blog/article is that they actually wrote it. And that their opinions were written down don't make them fact. Apply your own mind and experience.

But that difference is actually huge. I think you are downplaying the value of the writing process. Assuming that writer is acting in good faith and truly tries to provide the best possible information.

But when you start writing, you start noticing that this idea might not be that good after all. Maybe I need to read more about this? Did you note everything? This idea conflicts with this other topic than I just wrote? What is correct? And the list goes on. When you structure all your thoughts as written text, it is easier to detect all conflicting ideas and mistakes. Not all writers are that good, but you should understand what I mean.