Summary of Write well. Start writing now. | Adam Benn | TEDxVitoriaGasteiz

Summary of "Write well. Start writing now." by Adam Benn

In his TEDx talk, Adam Benn emphasizes the critical importance of writing in today's digital age, where much of our communication occurs in written form. He argues that effective writing is essential for making a good first impression, whether in professional settings, social media, or personal interactions. Benn identifies a common fear and underdevelopment of writing skills among many individuals, attributing this to various factors, including technology and educational shortcomings.

Main Ideas:

The Importance of Writing:
- Writing is increasingly vital as many interactions happen online.
- Poor writing can lead to significant losses in productivity and opportunities.
Common Misconceptions:
- Many people associate writing with being a "writer," which creates unnecessary pressure.
- Unlike speaking, writing lacks immediate feedback and helpers (like tone and body language), making it more challenging.
Clarity and Thought:
- Writing requires Clear thinking and careful word choice, which can enhance understanding and communication.
Improvement Strategies:
- Benn provides three actionable tips to improve writing skills.

Methodology / Tips for Improving Writing:

The Three C's:
- Clear: Ensure your message is straightforward and leaves no room for misinterpretation.
- Concise: Write less, especially in business contexts, to accommodate busy readers.
- Correct: Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and factual accuracy.
Revise and Seek Feedback:
- Never settle for the first draft. Get feedback from others or return to your text after a break for a fresh perspective.
- For important documents, consider hiring a professional editor.
Practice Regularly:
- Write every day to develop your skills. Start with simple tasks like shopping lists or journals.
- Engage in various writing activities to build confidence and competence.
Read More:
- Reading enhances writing skills. The more you read, the better your writing will become.

Conclusion:

Benn encourages everyone to embrace writing as a valuable skill that can significantly impact personal and professional life. He concludes with a powerful reminder about the permanence of the written word and urges the audience to start writing now.

Speakers/Sources Featured:

Adam Benn (Speaker)

Notable Quotes

— 06:53 — « Writing is thinking on paper. »

— 06:59 — « Anyone who thinks clearly can write clearly about anything at all. »

— 11:28 — « The spoken word perishes, the written word remains. »

— 11:43 — « If you are your writing, make your words impress. »