On Writing Well
A definitive guide to mastering the craft of writing nonfiction.
Summary of 6 Key Points
Key Points
- The principles of good writing: clarity, simplicity, brevity
- Techniques to improve style and voice
- The importance of the writer’s attitude and discipline
- Specific tips for writing across different nonfiction genres
- The art of revising and rewriting
- Writing as a craft that can be learned and mastered
key point 1 of 6
The principles of good writing: clarity, simplicity, brevity
The principles of good writing hinge significantly on the concepts of clarity, simplicity, and brevity. At its core, clarity is about ensuring that the reader understands what the writer is trying to convey. This involves the careful selection of words and construction of sentences that are straightforward and unambiguous. The writer must anticipate the reader’s questions and answer them within the text. The use of jargon, overly complex sentence structures, and ambiguity are seen as impediments to clear communication. Clarity is not just about the language used but also about the organization of ideas. A well-structured argument or narrative helps the reader follow along and grasp the intended message…Read&Listen More
key point 2 of 6
Techniques to improve style and voice
The techniques to improve style and voice as detailed in the text begin with the fundamental principle of clarity. The author emphasizes that writing should be clear and use words that precisely convey the author’s intent. Clarity is the cornerstone of good writing, and it is achieved through simplicity and conciseness. To improve the style, writers are advised to strip their sentences of unnecessary words, focus on strong verbs instead of adverbs, and prefer the active voice over the passive voice. This not only enhances the readability of the text but also gives it a more direct and engaging voice…Read&Listen More
key point 3 of 6
The importance of the writer’s attitude and discipline
The writer’s attitude is critical in crafting compelling and authentic prose. The author emphasizes that writers must approach their work with both humility and confidence. Humility is necessary to recognize that writing is an ongoing learning process; there’s always room for improvement. Yet, a writer must also have the confidence to believe in their unique perspective and voice. This balance enables writers to be open to constructive criticism and revision while also having the courage to express their thoughts and stand behind their words. An earnest and sincere attitude towards the craft can often be sensed by readers, and it makes the writing more engaging and credible…Read&Listen More
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Specific tips for writing across different nonfiction genres
The book delves into the nuances of writing across various nonfiction genres, emphasizing the need for clarity, simplicity, and precision no matter the subject matter. For instance, in the realm of sports writing, the author suggests focusing on the human element behind the game – the struggles, triumphs, and personal stories of the athletes – rather than merely recounting scores and statistics. This approach breathes life into articles, making them more engaging for readers who may not even be sports enthusiasts. The narrative insists on finding the story within the game and telling it in a way that resonates on a human level, showcasing the universal themes of perseverance, defeat, and victory…Read&Listen More
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The art of revising and rewriting
Revising and rewriting is a crucial aspect of the writing process, often more important than the act of writing the first draft itself. The initial draft is usually a raw form of one’s thoughts and the true craft emerges from painstakingly reviewing and refining the content. The writer emphasizes the necessity of stripping away unnecessary words, phrases, and even entire paragraphs to get to the core of what needs to be conveyed. This process is not merely about grammar or spelling corrections, but about achieving clarity, simplicity, and rhythm in writing…Read&Listen More
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Writing as a craft that can be learned and mastered
Writing is not merely a talent bestowed upon a select few, but rather a craft that can be learned, honed, and mastered by anyone with the dedication to pursue it. This concept challenges the mystique often surrounding the act of writing, which is sometimes viewed as a magical gift rather than a skill to be developed. The idea encourages individuals to approach writing with the mindset of a craftsman, focusing on the refinement and improvement of their work through practice and persistence. It emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and the willingness to learn from mistakes as essential components of the writing process…Read&Listen More