Ben Guttmann
The 1,000 most commonly used words in English make up about 75% of the language as it’s actually used. In Simply Put, I write about how important it is to make sure we’re speaking the same language as our audience, and this metric is a great way to stress-test your message.
Drop your text below, click that big button, and it will automatically flag words in red which aren’t on the list. You don’t have to only use these popular words to be understood, but seeing what pops up will help you find where you might be more complicated than you need to be.
Start with the simplest possible language and go from there. Don’t reach for the big words unless you absolutely have to—they’ll pack more punch when you use them sparingly. But when in doubt, clear beats clever.
Why do some messages work when others don't? Why do some ideas break through, why do some slogans stick in your brain, and why do some leaders inspire change – when others don't? The answer is simple. Literally.
But that doesn't mean it's easy. In Simply Put, Ben Guttmann unveils a five-part framework that allows anybody to communicate with clarity. With this book, you'll be able to design messages that are beneficial, focused, salient, empathetic, and minimal – and that work.
