What type of knowledge is often personal and gained through life experiences?

Tacit knowledge is a type of knowledge that is deeply personal and often rooted in individual experiences. This knowledge is typically hard to articulate and share because it encompasses insights, intuitions, and hunches that an individual has developed over time through personal experiences. Examples of tacit knowledge include skills like riding a bike or navigating social interactions, where proficiency is gained through practice rather than formal instruction.

This distinction is crucial in the context of knowledge management, as tacit knowledge can be valuable for organizations but is often challenging to capture and transfer to others. It contrasts with explicit knowledge, which is formal, codified, and easily communicated, such as written documents or manuals. Understanding the nature of tacit knowledge helps organizations recognize the importance of leveraging personal experiences and informal training in their operations.