LEADERSHIP LAB: The Craft of Writing Effectively

Larry McEnerney introduces the University of Chicago's writing program, which uniquely focuses on assisting faculty and expert writers rather than freshmen. He argues that traditional rule-based writing instruction is inadequate for experts who use writing as a tool for complex thinking. The core problem, he explains, is that experts write in patterns that hinder readers, because they were trained to write for teachers who were paid to care, unlike the real world where readers seek value. McEnerney emphasizes that effective professional writing isn't about conveying ideas but changing them by understanding and addressing the specific needs and doubts of the intended audience. He advises focusing on creating value for the reader by identifying and incorporating the codes and conventions of the relevant academic community, using strategies such as highlighting instability and framing arguments in terms of costs and benefits to the reader.