What is bad writing? Chamath Palihapitiya

Time Investment

Reading is an investment of time that demands a return in value. Chamath Palihapitiya emphasizes that bad writing occurs when the writer is unclear, leaving the reader to decipher the message. He argues that a good nonfiction writer must ensure that the reader walks away with a conclusion that is worthwhile, even if they don't agree with it.

If you invest three minutes, that's an equation where they are investing, where they are paying you in time. A good nonfiction writer has to be able to pay that equation back at the end of that time commitment where you have walked away with a conclusion that's net additive.

--- Chamath Palihapitiya

This approach ensures that the reader's time is respected and rewarded with meaningful insights 1.

   

Conclusive Endings

Conclusive endings are crucial for reader satisfaction, as they provide a sense of closure and value. Chamath Palihapitiya highlights the importance of clarity in writing, where the reader should not be left questioning the writer's intent. He believes that a well-crafted conclusion should leave the reader with a sensation of having gained something valuable from the experience.

The way that I think something has to end is conclusive.

--- Chamath Palihapitiya

This ensures that the reader's investment of time is justified and appreciated 1.