Barbara Minto

The Pyramid Principle

1. IDEA 1

   Start with the main point

   Minto, who trained consultants at McKinsey, argues that clear writing should begin with the main idea. Supporting points then follow beneath it, forming a pyramid. In his view, readers then know at once what the writer wants them to understand.

2. IDEA 2

   Readers need structure

   Minto argues that readers understand ideas best when they are grouped and ordered logically. A clear structure reduces confusion. In his account, ideas that are grouped by logic are easier to remember than the same ideas given in a random order.

3. IDEA 3

   Introductions set up a question

   Minto describes introductions that state the situation, introduce a complication and raise the question the document will answer. In his view, this lets the reader agree on the background before the writer gives the answer.

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