Deep Work

by Cal Newport
Deep Work cover
Good Books rating 3.62
Self-Help and Personal Development
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Waterstones
Paperback • £17.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 263
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2026-01-28
  • ISBN: 9780349411910
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2016-01-05
  • Formats: 34
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Deep Work,' Cal Newport argues that the ability to concentrate without distraction on cognitively demanding tasks is becoming increasingly rare and valuable. This skill, which Newport calls 'deep work,' can lead to extraordinary results, increased productivity, and a sense of true fulfillment. The book combines cultural criticism with actionable advice, offering memorable stories and surprising suggestions to help readers cultivate a deep work practice. From Carl Jung building a stone tower to focus his mind to a social media pioneer writing a book on a plane, the examples and advice in this book provide a roadmap for achieving focused success in an increasingly distracted world. Newport suggests that serious professionals should consider quitting social media and practicing being bored to develop this crucial skill.

Reviews
Oasis Human Relations · 2025-09-06
pragmatic 3.50

The reviewer finds Part 1 excessively long but appreciates the core message about cultivating deep work amidst a frantic world. They highlight the book's emphasis on the value of distraction-free concentration for professional success.

The reviewer expresses some frustration with the length of the initial section of the book, feeling it could have been more concise. However, they acknowledge the importance of the concept of deep work, especially in today's hectic and distraction-filled environment. They see the book as a practical guide to help readers develop the skill of intense focus, which they regard as essential for achieving meaningful and high-quality work in professional life.

Quick quotes

    Part 1 (all 72 pages) is in my opinion about 62 pages too long.

    If you need any convincing that learning how to cultivate deep work (in these epically frantic times) is important, this book will persuade you.

    Deep work is about distraction-free concentration that pushes your cognitive capabilities to their limit.

Natalie Sisson · Natalie Sisson · 2025-04-30
excellent 4.50

The book is highly recommended for anyone who wants to work smarter and avoid distractions. It is considered one of the best books of the year by the reviewer.

Natalie Sisson is a big fan of this book, considering it one of the best she's read this year. She recommends it to anyone looking to work smarter and avoid distractions. The book's emphasis on the power of focus and the importance of blocking out time is seen as potentially life-changing. The reviewer appreciates the practical advice and strategies offered, making it a valuable resource for improving productivity.

Quick quotes

    This is definitely one of my favorite books this year and I'd recommend it for anyone who wants to work smarter and avoid distractions.

    The book serves as an important reminder of the power of focus.

    It's a valuable resource for improving productivity.

Reddit - Productivity · 2024-06-17
excellent 4.00

They find Cal Newport's work to be an excellent source of no-nonsense wisdom. They believe it provides valuable guidance for focusing in a distracted world.

The reviewer highly recommends Cal Newport's 'Deep Work' for its practical advice on achieving focused success. They appreciate the no-nonsense approach and find the book to be a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their productivity. The reviewer particularly values the wisdom offered, which they feel is directly applicable to their life.

Quick quotes

    Cal Newport's work is an excellent example of the no-nonsense wisdom I've needed in the areas of my life for which I was seeking guidance.

    I can't say anything about his book 'deep work', but I have two of his other works.

    Thoughts on Cal Newport and his concept of deep work?

Medium - Content by Design · 2023-01-12
dry 2.50

They find the book's academic tone dry and even boring, which they attribute to the author's background as an MIT-trained computer science professor.

The reviewer notes that 'Deep Work' is written in a very academic tone, which they find dry and sometimes boring. This style is attributed to the author's background as an MIT-trained computer science professor. While the content may be valuable, the delivery can be challenging for some readers. The reviewer suggests that the book might benefit from a more engaging and accessible writing style to reach a broader audience.

Quick quotes

    It's written in a very academic (i.e. dry, even boring) tone that makes perfect sense coming from an MIT-trained computer science professor.

    The book might benefit from a more engaging and accessible writing style.

    The content may be valuable, but the delivery can be challenging.

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