Communication

The Pyramid Principle: 8 key ideas

by Barbara Minto

The core ideas of The Pyramid Principle, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 8

   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 OF 8

   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 OF 8

   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.

4. IDEA 4 OF 8

   Ideas answer questions

   Minto explains that each level of the pyramid answers a question raised by the level above.

   This vertical logic keeps ideas connected. In his account, this chain of questions and answers makes sure nothing is left hanging.

5. IDEA 5 OF 8

   Grouped ideas must fit together

   Minto explains that points at the same level should share a common theme.

   This horizontal logic keeps groups tidy. In his view, if a group has mixed kinds of points, the reader finds it hard to see the logic.

6. IDEA 6 OF 8

   Groups should not overlap

   Minto describes grouping ideas so that they are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive, often called MECE.

   In his view, this means no point is repeated in two groups, and no important point is left out. The result is a tidy, complete argument.

7. IDEA 7 OF 8

   Reasoning can be deductive or inductive

   Minto explains two ways to link ideas: deductive chains of reasoning and inductive groups of similar points.

   In his view, the first moves from a general idea to a conclusion, while the second gathers several similar facts into one message.

8. IDEA 8 OF 8

   Clear thinking produces clear writing

   Minto argues that unclear writing usually reflects unclear thinking.

   Structuring ideas first helps. In his view, a writer who has not decided what to say will produce a confusing page, however polished the sentences are.