"Write like you code": The Intersection of Good Writing and Good Code

"Write like you code": The Intersection of Good Writing and Good Code

Writing and coding may seem like two completely different disciplines, but when you take a closer look, you'll find that they have more in common than you might think. Good writing, just like good code, is simple, efficient, and structured. On the other hand, bad writing, like bad code, is unnecessarily complex, inefficient with the reader's memory, and structured like a bowl of spaghetti.

In the world of coding, there is a saying that goes, "Good code is code that can be understood by a junior engineer. Great code can be understood by a first-year CS freshman. The best code is no code at all." This statement holds true in the realm of writing as well. If something in your writing doesn't need to be said, don't say it. This is the writer's equivalent of "the best code is no code at all".

Just as a programmer must consider the mental resources of the computer, a writer must consider the mental resources of the reader. Attention span and memory are the writer's equivalent of CPU cycles and RAM. Good writing takes into account the limitations of the reader's cognitive abilities and strives to present information in a way that is easy to understand and remember.

To combat the reader's potential boredom, good writing incorporates elements of humor or insight. One technique that many writers employ to keep their readers engaged is to ensure they have an epiphany every 250 words. This concept, known as the "Raymond Chandler rule" as coined by David Perell, encourages writers to provide their readers with moments of realization or enlightenment at regular intervals throughout their piece. This not only keeps the reader interested but also helps to reinforce the main points being conveyed.

In the realm of coding, Twitter stands as a prime example of simplicity and transparency. Their company purpose, principles, and leadership all reflect the values of straightforwardness and efficiency. Twitter aims to provide an open service that fosters a diverse range of people, perspectives, ideas, and information. They prioritize creating a free and safe space for conversation, valuing transparency in their product, behavior, and work habits. They believe in moving fast, being true to oneself, and embracing a sense of fun.

So, how can we apply the principles of good writing and good code to our own work? Here are three actionable pieces of advice to consider:

1. Simplify and streamline: Just as you would refactor and optimize your code to make it more efficient, take the time to simplify and streamline your writing. Cut out unnecessary words and phrases, eliminate jargon or technical terms that may confuse your readers, and ensure that your ideas flow logically and coherently.

2. Engage your readers: Just like a well-designed user interface can captivate users, aim to engage your readers from the very beginning. Incorporate elements of humor, provide thought-provoking insights, or tell compelling stories to grab their attention and keep them hooked throughout your piece.

3. Be transparent and to the point: Transparency is not only crucial in coding but also in writing. Be clear and concise in your communication, avoiding ambiguity or unnecessary complexity. Your readers should be able to understand your message without having to decipher layers of convoluted sentences.

In conclusion, the worlds of writing and coding share common ground when it comes to simplicity, efficiency, and structure. Good writing, like good code, aims to be easily understood, optimized for the reader's mental resources, and engaging. By applying the principles of good writing and good code, we can create content that is not only effective but also enjoyable for our readers. So, the next time you sit down to write, remember to "write like you code".