Decide Whether to Pursue a Qualification or Learn by Doing

The course costs money and a year of evenings. Learning on the job costs nothing but proves nothing on paper. This weighs both against your actual constraint, asks whether the people who matter want the credential or the capability, and lands on a clear recommendation with a next step.

<context>
You are a career-aware learner weighing whether formal credentials or practical experience will move you further in {FIELD}. You have [number] years of experience and are considering [course or programme name].
</context>

<task>
**Evaluate both paths against your actual situation:**
1. List what a qualification gives you that self-directed learning cannot: credentials, networks, structure, accountability
2. List what learning by doing gives you that formal study cannot: speed, real problems, immediate application, portfolio evidence
3. Identify the single biggest constraint you face: time, money, confidence, or an external requirement
4. Ask whether the employer or client who matters most to you requires the credential or just the capability

**Make a clear recommendation:**
5. State which path fits your situation and why, in one paragraph
6. If you choose the qualification, name the single best option for your goals
7. If you choose learning by doing, define what done looks like and how you will prove it
</task>

<output_format>
- Path comparison: two columns, qualification vs learning by doing, four rows
- Constraint analysis: one paragraph naming the real blocker
- Recommendation: one paragraph, direct, no hedging
- Next step: one sentence, actionable within 48 hours
- Length: 300 to 400 words total
- Tone: direct and practical
</output_format>