you don't have to be a rocket scientist

you don't have to be a rocket scientist (to do something)

You don't have to be particularly intelligent to be able to do or understand something. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to learn how to change the oil in your car. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to know that you have to unplug electrical equipment before you try to fix it.
See also: have, rocket, scientist
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

you don’t have to be a ˈrocket scientist (to do something)

,

it doesn’t take a ˈrocket scientist (to do something)

used to emphasize that something is easy to understand: Of course this model sells more than the others — it’s the cheapest! It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work that one out.
See also: have, rocket, scientist
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

rocket scientist, you don't have to be a

This problem or idea is not that difficult to understand. This hyperbolic colloquialism dates from the mid-twentieth century, as does its synonym, you don’t have to be a brain surgeon. Clearly they imply that these professions require unusual intellectual acumen. Reporting on an economic forum, the Boston Globe quoted former President Bill Clinton, “You want to save 4 million lives? Give them the medicine. It’s not rocket science” (Jan. 28, 2005). Also, “And then he got murdered. Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure there’s a lot more to it than I thought” (David Baldacci, Hour Gam, 2004). See also no-brainer.
See also: have, rocket
The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer
See also:
  • Don’t make a federal case out of it!
  • don't bet on it
  • don't get me wrong
  • don't beat a dead horse
  • all in (one's) head
  • don't cry before you are hurt
  • a thing you don't want is dear at any price
  • come it
  • come it (with one)
References in periodicals archive
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to be an international striker-turnedmanager-turned-Sky pundit, but with a degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Herts, Iain Dowie fits the bill nicely.
Rocket science way overrated as a profession; PICK OF THE DAY
You don't have to be a rocket scientist or biologist to get to the level of an informed amateur," Wheeler says.
The great debate: evolution v. intelligent design doesn't have to pull a school district apart and leave both sides gunning for the other
"If Cardiff can get crowds of 17,000 to 18,000 in the Second Division, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to see if you add good African players to good Welsh players at Barry Town the supporters are there."
Football: Nigerian defender West could be heading to Jenner Park
"You don't have to be a rocket scientist to appreciate something was going on, " Cotton said.
Cotton attacks duo
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand the physics underlying solar sails.
Travelin' Light
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to initiate a program leading to a workable corporate governance format for your company.
Twenty years of corporate governance
"You don't have to be a rocket scientist to know what the attorney is looking for," lawyer Michael Kranitz says.
A new breed of hired gun: in today's legal system, you not only need the best lawyers money can buy - but also the best expert witnesses