There's certainly wisdom in that. I've noticed that indeed, when I use things, they stick in my brain more. In this logic it would be better to go for method two, it'd have the advantages of

• Necessary knowledge is gained
• Necessary knowledge sticks easier

If that takes less time than preparing by reading up for three days, then I should definately go for choice two.

Bah. It still makes me feel like walking into the camel desert of doom and realising after three days of walking that you forgot a lot of important stuff.

I probably just worry too much. Thanks for the advice.