I know most of the stuff listed there and do not have a published textbook or papers. It sounds like the author achieved success because they work hard on things they’re passionate about. Knowledge and published works are a byproduct of that.
I think the point is that knowing this stuff makes it easier to write a paper because you are not as easily out of breath. It's not guaranteeing you a good paper and phd, that's your part.
Maybe you too could be a successful phd-student? :) At least you know the basics!
