Unlearn to Learn, The Curse of Knowledge, The Ladder of Abstraction & More

Read time: 5 minutes.

Bonjour Doctors and Writers,

Here are 5 interesting ideas to improve your writing this week. 

Today at a glance

Question: What if the opposite were true?

Quote: The power of persistence in writing.

Framework: The Ladder of Abstraction.

Idea: The Curse of Knowledge.

Video: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie on the danger of a single story.

Question to give your writing direction

What if the opposite were true? 

Challenge your assumptions. What if everything you believe about your topic is wrong?

This question forces you to examine your biases and preconceptions. It pushes you to research more deeply, to seek contrasting viewpoints.

Does your argument still hold water when viewed from the other side?

Can you incorporate opposing ideas to strengthen your position?

Or does this exercise reveal flaws in your reasoning?

Use this technique to add depth and nuance to your writing. It helps you anticipate and address potential counter-arguments. It can lead to unexpected insights and fresh perspectives.

By entertaining the opposite, you often arrive at a more balanced, thoughtful piece. Your writing becomes more persuasive and more intellectually honest.

Readers appreciate this approach. It shows a willingness to engage with complexity and a respect for their intelligence.

So before you put pen to paper, ask yourself:

What if the opposite was true?

The answer might surprise you - and your readers.

Quote on creating

The lesson: Don't let perfectionism paralyze you.

Write, then refine. 

Framework to tighten up your text

The Ladder of Abstraction by S.I. Hayawaka

Move between concrete details and abstract concepts to engage readers.

Here's how to use it:

1. Start concrete: Begin with specific, sensory details to ground your reader.

2. Climb to abstract: Gradually introduce broader concepts and ideas.

3. Descend for examples: Return to concrete examples to illustrate abstract points.

4. Ascend for meaning: Draw out the larger significance of your examples.

5. Balance your climb: Alternate between abstract and concrete throughout your piece.

Here’s a ladder you might climb when talking about schools.

This framework keeps your writing dynamic and accessible. It helps readers grasp complex ideas through relatable examples. It also adds rhythm and variety to your prose.

Practice by taking a recent piece and identifying where you can add concrete details or abstract insights.

Remember, great writing is a dance between the tangible and the conceptual.

Idea: The Curse of Knowledge

Experts often struggle to explain their field to novices. They forget what it's like not to know.

This is the Curse of Knowledge. As a writer, you must break this curse.

Imagine explaining your topic to a smart 12-year-old.

Use analogies, metaphors, and simple language.

Break down complex ideas into digestible chunks.

Don't assume prior knowledge - explain key terms. But avoid condescension - respect your reader's intelligence. The best writers make the complex seem simple. They build bridges between expertise and understanding.

Remember, clarity is kindness. Your goal is not to showcase your knowledge but to share it effectively.

By overcoming the Curse of Knowledge, you expand your audience and your impact.

Video: The Danger of a Single Story

Here’s a powerful TED talk by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie on the importance of diverse narratives in storytelling.

We dare you to not be inspired.

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— Adi and Pranav