How I Write Steven Pinker: Harvard Professor Explains The Rules of Writing | How I Write
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Jun 4, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, Steven Pinker, a Harvard Professor and renowned author, delves into the intricacies of effective writing. He addresses 'The Curse of Knowledge,' emphasizing the need to simplify language for broader audience connection. Pinker also reflects on the value of childhood perspectives in enhancing creativity and humor. Furthermore, he explores the impact of AI on writing, contrasting human creativity with AI's structured outputs, and urges writers to embrace clarity and brevity in their craft.
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Curse of Knowledge Hinders Clarity
- Bad writing often stems from the "curse of knowledge," where writers can't imagine not knowing what they know.
- This causes them to use jargon, acronyms, and abstractions that confuse audiences unfamiliar with their field.
Use Diverse Readers for Clarity
- Show your writing to diverse readers outside your specialization to catch unclear language.
- Empathy alone isn't enough because the curse of knowledge blinds you to what others don't understand.
Visual Imagery Enhances Writing
- Thinking visually enriches writing since the brain relies heavily on sensory and motor imagery.
- Writing should help readers form vivid mental images rather than rely on abstract jargon and concepts.
