The Sense of Style

by Steven Pinker
The Sense of Style cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Language and Linguistics
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 7084
  • Added: 2025-12-10
  • Updated: 2025-12-13
  • ISBN: 9781846145513
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2014-09-04
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Sense of Style', Steven Pinker, a renowned cognitive scientist and linguist, delves into the intricacies of good writing. He argues that writing well is a skill that can be honed by anyone, using the latest scientific insights to guide readers through the process. Pinker explores the link between syntax and ideas, offering practical advice on how to overcome common writing challenges, such as the 'Curse of Knowledge', which makes it difficult to imagine what it's like not to know something we do. /n/n Pinker's guide is not just about rules and regulations; it's about understanding the art of writing. He distinguishes between myths and superstitions and rules that truly enhance clarity and grace. Whether you're a seasoned writer or a beginner, 'The Sense of Style' offers valuable insights that can help you improve your writing and appreciation of the craft.

Reviews
A. Campbell · A. Campbell · 2020-01-16
positive 4.00

Chapter 6 is highlighted as the best part of the book, with modern explanations that make the topics accessible. The book is seen as a valuable resource for improving writing skills.

A. Campbell particularly enjoys Chapter 6, which they find to be the best part of the book. They appreciate the modern explanations that make the topics accessible and engaging. The reviewer sees the book as a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills, offering practical advice and insights that can be applied in various contexts.

Quick quotes

    I found Chapter 6 to be the best part of the book.

    Pinker's explanations of the topics he discusses make use of the modern.

    The book is a valuable resource for improving writing skills.

Alex Sheremet · Alex Sheremet · 2014-10-13
mixed 3.00

The book has some excellent moments but is bogged down by traps that the author falls into, making it less impactful. It offers useful insights but could be more concise.

Alex Sheremet finds that while the book has some brilliant moments, it is often weighed down by the author's own pitfalls. They appreciate the useful insights provided but feel that the book could benefit from being more concise. The reviewer suggests that the book is a good read for those interested in writing, but it could be improved with a more focused approach.

Quick quotes

    The Sense Of Style has a few excellent moments, but is so bogged down by traps that Pinker can't help but fall into.

    The book offers useful insights but could be more concise.

    It's a good read for those interested in writing, but it could be improved with a more focused approach.

The Blue Garret · 2014-09-03
insightful 4.50

The book emphasizes the transformative power of writing, suggesting that good writing can change perceptions. It offers practical advice on improving writing skills and making communication more effective.

The reviewer highlights how the book underscores the impact of good writing on how the world is perceived. They appreciate the practical tips provided, which can help anyone looking to enhance their writing abilities. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those interested in the art of effective communication, offering insights that can be applied in both academic and creative writing.

Quick quotes

    Good writing can flip the way the world is perceived, like the Necker cube.

    Pinker's advice is practical and can be applied immediately.

    The book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills.

Appears in Lists