Writing That Works; How to Communicate Effectively In Business

The pyramid scheme really works: start with the main point, list the supporting points, then expand on them. Starting with the main point seems like such a simple idea, but many times, I used to lead up to the main point, by which time readers got bored. Listing the supporting points is important from a summary and lets the reader know why you are making the argument you are making. If they don't trust you on a point, it's quite easy to jump over to the place where you provide supporting evidence. I used to think I was a good writer (author of 8 technical books, 50+ research papers, and 100s of articles), but this simple concept has really helped improve how effective my business writing is.

I purchased this for a New Leader Program with my government job. I was impressed with how detailed and accurate the information was in the book. It covers emails, professional letters, proposals, and even presentations. This book has been updated 3 times to keep with the current mode of written communication and has been a huge asset in how I communicate with my coworkers, contractors, and the public. Just remember, No Mumbling. Don't know what I'm referring to? I highly recommend this book to find out. It will benefit you in many different ways.

This book is a must-read. It is short, succinct and relevant - even (or especially) in our era of email, text messaging and social media. While the book is getting dated, the principles of Keep It Simple Stupid, short and to the point, and use proper grammar - including examples. We all need reminders of how to write effectively, and it is a skill that degrades over time. Email and social media make it worse. Read and refresh. Great for students as well.

In an era where attention spans are shrinking, Writing That Works by Kenneth Roman and Joel Raphaelson serves as an essential guide for anyone looking to cut through the noise. This book is not merely a manual for corporate memos; it is a comprehensive masterclass in effective expression that remains timelessly relevant. What sets this volume apart is its incredible versatility. The authors demonstrate that the principles of good writing are universal, applying them to almost any form of communication. Whether you are drafting an intimate letter to a friend, crafting a persuasive fundraising appeal, or detailing complex plans for organizations, the advice remains potent. The book bridges the gap between personal warmth and professional rigor, proving that clarity is the best courtesy you can pay your reader. True to its title, the book practices what it preaches. The prose is refreshingly clear and concise, stripping away jargon to reveal the core mechanics of persuasion. It is filled with invaluable suggestions—from how to start a speech to the subtle art of the email subject line—that can be immediately applied to improve your daily correspondence. Writing That Works is more than a reference book; it is a toolkit for connection. If you want your ideas to be understood and your words to matter, this book is required reading.

I feel like I am reading not a timeless book but one that is outdated. This book needs a serious rewrite.

I'm an engineer so I struggle with writing well and effectively. This book was an immense help in helping me understand not only what I was doing wrong, but how to write to a specific audience. As somebody in the sciences, I can personally attest that there are LOTS of people who don't know how to write. Not only are they bad at it, they don't ever take the time to learn - mainly because they don't think its important. Clearly communicating to your boss and your peers is an immense help in the sciences and I would highly recommend this book as a great intro to somebody looking to improve their writing and style.

If you write, this book should be your ready reference. Whether you write emails, letters, proposals, speeches, reports, or all of the above, this book will help you write them better. The authors write sharply with pithy and relevant anecdotes and examples. They contrast effective and ineffective examples of writing. They write with clarity and authority. Easy to read, full of terrific (and simple) ideas, and insightful. This book is staying on my desk as a ready reference for all of my future writing projects. Justin Coulson PhD

It’s been awhile since I’ve been in school and this book helped build the bring from school to my older age now. I have a better understanding of proper email writing.