The Sense of Style: 2 Minutes Summary

1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: The Sense of Style provides a fascinating and sympathetic guide to the craft of writing, helping us to understand the complexities of language and find our own unique voice.

“Good writing is not a natural gift but a skill that can be learned and refined.”

Quick Info

Overview

The Sense of Style by Steven Pinker is a comprehensive guide to understanding and improving one’s writing.

It is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of the English language, its usage, and the principles of good writing.

Pinker takes readers through the basics of grammar, syntax, and usage, and provides practical advice on how to write effectively and eloquently.

He presents a wealth of examples, both good and bad, to illustrate his points and help readers recognize good writing.

In this book, Pinker argues that writing is more than just following rules—it is a creative process that requires clear thinking and an understanding of the reader’s needs.

With The Sense of Style, Pinker provides a clear, concise, and enjoyable guide to understanding and improving one’s writing.

4 Key Lessons from The Sense of Style by Steven Pinker

1. Understand the Reader

The most important lesson from The Sense of Style is to understand the reader.

Pinker stresses the importance of being aware of and catering to the needs of the reader.

He explains that the writer should consider the context of the reader, their level of knowledge about the topic, and the purpose of the writing when crafting the writing.

Knowing the reader and the purpose of the writing can help the writer to better structure their writing in a way that will be most effective in communicating their message.

2. Make Writing Accessible

Pinker emphasizes the need to make writing as accessible and understandable as possible.

He suggests avoiding overly complex language and using simple words and clear structures.

This can help to ensure that the writing is understandable and engaging for the reader, rather than confusing and off-putting.

3. Acknowledge Subjectivity

Pinker acknowledges that there is a subjective element to writing, and encourages readers to be aware of this.

He explains that many aspects of writing, such as the use of humor and irony, are open to interpretation and can be seen differently by different readers.

Being aware of this will help writers to ensure that their work is understood as intended by the reader.

4. Take Risks

Finally, Pinker encourages writers to take risks and be creative with their writing.

He explains that writing is an art form and should be treated as such, not just a series of facts and figures.

Taking risks and being creative can help to make writing more engaging for the reader and can help to create a unique style that will make the writing stand out.

Who Should Read It

This book would be most beneficial for writers, editors, and language enthusiasts.

It would also be useful for anyone who is looking to improve their writing skills and gain an understanding of the principles of good style.

Where to Get It

If you love the smell and the feel of a physical book, you can just click on the button below:

If you like to listen to audiobooks while doing the daily chores or when commuting to work, you can Try Audible Premium Plus and Listen to this Book for Free.

If you’re not sure yet, I recommend you to read a more in depth summary on Blinkist. You’ll also get a 7 day free trial and more than 5.000 other books to browse through.

---

About Steven Pinker

Steven Pinker is an American cognitive scientist, linguist, and popular science author.

He is the Johnstone Family Professor in the Department of Psychology at Harvard University and is known for his advocacy of evolutionary psychology and the computational theory of mind.

Pinker’s books on language, cognition and popular science have sold over two million copies, and his academic work has been cited many times in scientific journals.

He has also been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.

or Try Audible Premium Plus and Listen to this Book for Free

---

Other Communication Skills Books you may Like:

• Best Books on Communication Skills
• Unleash the Power of Storytelling by Rob Biesenbach
• We Need to Talk by Celeste Headlee
• What Every Body is Saying by Joe Navarro
• Words That Change Minds by Shelle Rose Charvet

---

Over to You

If you already read The Sense of Style by Steven Pinker, please take a moment to rate it and maybe write your feedback in the comments. You’ll help other readers make the best choice.

Thanks a lot,
Simon

---