Help identifying the author of this phrase

Question

Hi all.

Some time ago I read on the Net something like "you learn a thing only when you really need it" (e.g., learning a new programming language). If memory serves me well that was a sort of "law" or "principle", ironic or not, and I cannot remember its author's name.

Any help in identifying the correct phrase and its author?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Oliver's Law

Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.