Expression for highlighting why studying is important

In my country, we have a saying that goes by "the pen is lighter than the shovel", that we use to convince kids and teenagers to overcome their laziness and take their studies seriously.

Is there a similar idiom for this, that could be said to a young person?


It's a quote, but with over 2.5 million Google hits, I'd say it's reached 'saying' status.

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.

  • Benjamin Franklin

[Selfmadesuccess.com]


The Pen is Mightier than the Sword.

or

Work smart, not hard.