The Elements of Style

by Strunk and White
The Elements of Style cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Education and Reference
Technical
  • ID: 3281
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • Publisher: DigiCat
  • Published: 2022-09-15
  • Reviews: 3

The Elements of Style is a concise and practical guide to English composition, emphasizing brevity, clarity, and precision. Initially published in 1918 by William Strunk, a professor of English at Cornell University, this seminal work has become a cornerstone of American writing instruction. Strunk's direct literary style and prescriptive grammar rules are supported by examples that illustrate effective writing techniques. His commitment to clear communication was influenced by his academic experiences and the recognition that effective writing is foundational for success in both academic and professional contexts. /n/n The book's blend of prescriptive grammar and stylistic guidance reflects the emerging modernist tendencies in literature. Strunk's insistence on the importance of revision, simplicity, and precision resonates through its pages, making it a vital addition to any writer's library. Expanded by his pupil, E.B. White, the work has had a lasting impact on generations of writers, encouraging them to communicate with clarity and confidence.

Reviews
Sam Anne's Blog · Sam Anne · 2018-01-30
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its practical advice on improving writing skills and promoting a plain English style. It is seen as a valuable resource for writers.

Sam Anne highlights the book's emphasis on practical advice for improving writing skills, particularly in promoting a plain English style. They appreciate the straightforward and accessible approach, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their writing. The book is seen as timeless, offering guidelines that remain relevant despite being written long ago.

Quick quotes

    This style manual offers practical advice on improving writing skills.

    Throughout, the emphasis is on promoting a plain English style.

    It is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their writing.

Becky's Blogs · Becky · 2013-02-01
good 3.00

The book is described as a tiny book with a lot of information, but the reviewer finds it to be somewhat lacking in depth.

Becky notes that The Elements of Style is a compact book packed with information, but they feel it lacks depth in certain areas. Despite this, they acknowledge its usefulness as a quick reference guide for grammar, style, and layout. The reviewer appreciates the timeless rules presented, but finds some aspects to be superficial.

Quick quotes

    This is a tiny little book with a lot of information.

    Overall Impression: This is a tiny little book with a lot of information.

    Despite being a relatively old book the rules in it are timeless.

Eyrie · 2006-10-08
great 4.50

The book is lauded for its concise and pointed advice, and its willingness to take a stand on writing rules. It is considered well-honed and polished.

The reviewer from Eyrie praises the book for its concise and pointed advice, noting that it is unafraid to take a stand on writing rules. They appreciate the book's careful honing and polishing, making it a reliable guide for writers. The reviewer finds the book to be as good as its reputation, offering timeless advice that remains relevant.

Quick quotes

    This book truly is as good as its reputation.

    It is short, pointed, and unafraid to take a stand.

    It has been carefully honed and polished.

Appears in Lists