learn the ropes
idiom

- to learn/know how to do a job or activity

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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Of all the theories regarding the origin of "learn the ropes," the most likely is related to sailing ships, where young sailors had to learn the basics of sails and lines (sailors refer to ropes as lines). Because sailors call them lines and not ropes, some etymology hobbyists argue against this as the origin. Still, there is evidence in seafaring literature that sailors have used the expression in this context since around the middle of the 19th century.

Older and more experienced "hands," as sailors are called, were required to "teach the ropes" or "show the ropes." Both of these phrases are still used today to describe teaching someone how to perform a task or activity.

Learning the ropes is one of many expressions with nautical roots. Among these is the interesting phrase "three sheets to the wind", meaning to be very drunk, something long associated with the stereotype of the sailor.

A sheet is a rope line that controls the tension on the downwind side of a square sail. If the sheets of the three lower sails are loose on a ship with three masts, the sails will flap and flutter and are said to be "in the wind".

A ship in this condition would stagger and wander aimlessly downwind like a drunken sailor.

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Practice OWAD in a conversation:

"As a new staff member, you'll be expected to LEARN THE ROPES in different departments before being offered a management position."