On Writing Well: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of On Writing Well, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Good writing is clear and simple
Zinsser argues that clear writing comes from clear thinking.
He urges writers of non-fiction to strip their sentences down to their essential parts. In his view, a plain sentence that is easy to follow serves the reader better than a showy one.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Clutter weakens writing
Zinsser argues that most first drafts are full of clutter, unnecessary words and phrases that hide the meaning.
Removing them strengthens writing. In his view, readers are busy and impatient, so every extra phrase costs their attention.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Write as yourself
Zinsser encourages writers to find their own voice and write as they naturally would speak.
Readers respond to warmth and personality. In his view, a natural voice makes the writing more believable and more pleasant to read.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Keep a piece unified
Zinsser argues that a piece of writing should keep a consistent tone, tense and point of view.
Unity helps readers follow. In his view, a piece that wanders between styles or viewpoints can lose the reader.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Beginnings and endings matter
Zinsser stresses that the opening must catch the reader's interest and the ending should leave them satisfied.
Both deserve care. In his view, a strong start earns the reader's trust, and a clean finish leaves a lasting impression.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Write about people and places
Zinsser offers guidance on writing about people, travel, science and memoir.
Each form has its own challenges. In his view, a writer must adapt the approach to the subject while keeping the same care for clarity and human interest.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Rewriting is the work
Zinsser argues that writing is mostly rewriting.
Good writers revise again and again. In his view, the first version is only raw material, and the real shaping happens in later versions. Careful revision brings out clarity.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Writing is human
Zinsser argues that the best non-fiction conveys humanity and warmth.
Readers connect with real people. In his view, readers remember a writer's personality, humour and warmth, more than any list of facts. Real stories make the subject come alive.
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