The Elements of Style: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Elements of Style, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Clear writing follows simple rules
Strunk, a Cornell professor, wrote a short guide to English usage and composition, later expanded by his former student E.
B. White. It offers brief rules for writing clearly and correctly.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Cut unnecessary words
The authors argue that strong writing is tight and brief.
In their view, every word in a sentence should earn its place, and anything that adds nothing should be removed.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Prefer the active voice
The authors recommend the active voice, in which the subject performs the action.
It is usually more direct and lively. In their view, this puts the doer at the front of the sentence and makes the meaning clearer at once.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
State things in positive form
The authors advise putting statements in positive form.
Saying what something is, they argue, is clearer than saying what it is not. In their view, a direct claim sounds more confident than one that hides behind a denial.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Be specific
The authors urge writers to use definite, specific and concrete language.
Vague words weaken writing. In their view, a precise detail gives the reader something to picture, while a general word leaves too much to the imagination.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Follow the rules of usage
The authors set out rules for commas, possessives and other points of grammar.
Correctness helps clarity. In their view, careless errors distract readers and make them doubt the writer. Knowing the basic conventions saves effort for the ideas themselves.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Paragraphs organise thought
The authors recommend making the paragraph the unit of composition, with one topic each.
In their view, a new paragraph tells the reader that a fresh step in the thought is beginning. This gives the page a clear shape.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Style reflects the writer
White's added chapter argues that style comes from the writer's character and care.
He encourages plainness and sincerity. In his view, a writer who is honest and careful tends to produce prose that readers can trust.
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