Say It Right: How to Present Big Ideas in Simple Ways
Learn how to communicate your nonfiction book’s ideas clearly, simply, and effectively—without losing depth or value.
Hey there! Reginaldo
Osnildo here again, and today we’re diving into something that sounds obvious…
but most nonfiction writers still get it wrong:
Clarity.
Because here’s the
truth:
Even the best ideas in the world don’t matter if your reader can’t understand
them.
Or worse—if they misunderstand them.
So let’s fix that.
In this article, I’ll walk you through how to present your ideas clearly so
your reader stays engaged, learns faster, and actually uses what you
teach.
Let’s go!
1. One Idea Per Paragraph
A common mistake?
Trying to cram too many thoughts into one paragraph.
Your
rule of thumb:
One idea per paragraph. One goal per section. One message per chapter.
This keeps your
writing clean, focused, and easy to follow.
Example:
Instead of this:
“Distractions affect
productivity and mental health and often cause people to procrastinate, which
then leads to anxiety and low self-esteem.”
Try this:
“Distractions hurt
productivity.
They also increase procrastination, which can create anxiety and lower
self-esteem.”
Simple. Clear. Impactful.
2. Use Simple Language (No Jargon Allowed)
You're not writing for
experts—you’re writing for real people.
That means cutting out:
- Academic jargon
- Overly technical terms
- Long, complex sentences
If
you wouldn’t say it in a conversation, don’t write it.
Example:
- Complicated:
“Utilize mindfulness-based techniques to mitigate cognitive dissonance.”
- Clear: “Use
simple mindfulness habits to reduce mental stress.”
See the difference?
3. Explain Concepts with Real-Life Examples
Abstract ideas feel
far away.
Concrete stories make them real.
Whenever possible:
- Share your personal experiences
- Describe a relatable scenario
- Use metaphors or analogies
Example:
“Trying to change too
many habits at once is like spinning five plates in the air. Eventually, one
drops—and often, it’s all of them.”
Now the reader feels
the message, not just reads it.
4. Use Lists and Bullet Points to Break It Down
Lists make content
digestible—especially when you’re presenting steps or multiple ideas.
Example:
To create a powerful
morning routine:
- Wake up at the
same time every day
- Avoid your phone
for the first 30 minutes
- Do one activity
that energizes you (stretching, journaling, etc.)
- Set your top 3
priorities before checking emails
That’s so much easier
to follow than a chunky paragraph!
5. Ask Questions to Spark Reflection
A great way to engage
the reader is to talk directly to them.
Ask questions that:
- Trigger self-reflection
- Make the content more interactive
- Build trust and emotional connection
Examples:
- “What’s one habit
you know you should change—but haven’t yet?”
- “Have you ever
finished your day feeling like you were busy but got nothing done?”
This creates a mini
conversation with your reader—and keeps them turning pages.
6. Anticipate Confusion (and Answer It Early)
Before you hit
“publish,” step into your reader’s shoes.
Ask:
- What might be
unclear in this section?
- What questions
might they have after reading this?
- Am I assuming too
much knowledge?
When you answer
questions before the reader asks them, you build credibility and flow.
7. Read Your Writing Out Loud
It might feel weird at
first—but it works.
Reading your text aloud:
- Helps you spot clunky sentences
- Reveals where your ideas lose flow
- Shows if you're using overly complex words
If you trip over a sentence… chances are your
reader will too.
8. Use
Short Paragraphs and Clear Headings
Big blocks of text = scary.
Short paragraphs = inviting.
Keep paragraphs to 3–4 sentences max.
Use headings every time you change the topic or angle.
And don't forget to include recaps or
summaries after teaching big ideas.
Recap: How
to Present Your Ideas Clearly
- Stick to one idea at a time
- Use simple, everyday language
- Include real-life examples or analogies
- Break up content with lists and subheadings
- Ask questions to keep the reader engaged
- Pre-answer potential doubts
- Read your writing out loud to check clarity
- Keep paragraphs short and your layout reader-friendly
Clarity isn’t just about style—it’s about serving
your reader.
And when they feel seen, understood, and empowered by your words… your book
becomes unforgettable.
Want More
Strategies to Write Clearly, Confidently, and With Purpose?
I’ve packed all my favorite writing tools,
tips, and templates into one easy-to-follow guide that’ll take you from “idea”
to “impact.”
Get your copy of:
The
Basics of Writing Nonfiction Books: How to Write About Personal Development
with Clarity, Practicality, and Direct Conversation with the Reader
Inside, you’ll discover:
- How to write clearly—even about deep topics
- How to build chapter structures that flow
- How to keep your message simple and powerful
- Tons of exercises to turn your ideas into a finished book
Whether you’re just starting or polishing your
draft, this guide is your writing partner every step of the way.
Click here to grab your copy now and write the book your reader will thank you for.
Talk soon,
— Reginaldo Osnildo