Effective writing is a skill that anyone can learn to communicate clearly and achieve their goals. Despite writing daily, many people have never been taught practical techniques for real-world writing. Here are six science-based principles for more effective writing:

First, be mindful of the reader's limited time and attention. People are often busy, so it’s crucial to get to the point quickly. Placing the core message at the beginning ensures the main idea isn't missed. Structuring content in a way that facilitates easy skimming helps readers quickly grasp the message. Using concrete language makes ideas clearer and more relatable. Additionally, engaging the reader’s self-interest keeps them invested in the content. Finally, using direct language motivates readers to take action.

Applying these principles makes writing easier to read, understand, and act on, improving outcomes for both the reader and the writer. Insights come from psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, as well as extensive research on effective communication. While subjective beauty in writing varies, effective writing is based on objective evidence about how humans process information.

These principles apply across all forms of practical communication, whether emails, reports, or letters. With practice, these techniques become second nature, helping writers convey information clearly, make requests, and motivate responses effectively.