Economical Writing, Third Edition: Thirty-Five Rules for Clear and Persuasive Prose by Deirdre Nansen McCloskey Summary

1. Use active voice to make writing dynamic and persuasive.
2. Avoid nominalizations by replacing abstract nouns with active verbs.
3. Revise ruthlessly to eliminate redundant words and weak qualifiers.
4. Write conversationally using short sentences and everyday vocabulary.
5. Replace jargon with concrete examples for clearer communication.
6. Cut clutter through rigorous editing to let ideas shine.
7. Structure arguments in parallel form for better reader comprehension.
8. Avoid footnotes except for essential supplementary information.
9. Strengthen prose by deleting hedging words like "perhaps."
10. Use formatting strategically to guide readers through complex concepts.
11. Focus paragraphs on single ideas with logical transitions.
12. Apply McCloskey's 35 rules to transform academic writing.

About the Author of Economical Writing, Third Edition

Deirdre Nansen McCloskey, author of Economical Writing and an esteemed economist and rhetorician, combines decades of academic rigor with practical insights into clear communication.

A Distinguished Professor Emerita of Economics, History, English, and Communication at the University of Illinois at Chicago, she brings interdisciplinary expertise to this essential guide for academic and professional writing.

Trained at Harvard, McCloskey has authored over 25 books, including the influential The Rhetoric of Economics and the Bourgeois Era trilogy, which reexamines the ethical and ideological foundations of modern capitalism. Her work bridges economic theory, historical analysis, and literary craftsmanship, reflecting her belief that precise writing is foundational to scholarly excellence.

Economical Writing, now in its third edition, has become a staple in university curricula worldwide, praised for transforming complex ideas into accessible prose.

McCloskey’s ideas have shaped debates in economics, ethics, and liberalism, with her books translated into 15 languages. She currently serves as Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute, advocating for classical liberal principles through both scholarly and popular platforms.

FAQs About Economical Writing, Third Edition

What is Economical Writing by Deirdre Nansen McCloskey about?

Economical Writing offers 35 practical rules for crafting clear, concise, and persuasive prose, emphasizing simplicity over jargon and brevity over verbosity. McCloskey, an economist and rhetorician, blends wit with actionable advice, advocating for active voice, precise word choice, and rigorous revision. The book targets academic and professional writers but applies to anyone seeking to communicate complex ideas effectively.

Who should read Economical Writing?

The book is ideal for academic researchers, economists, students, and professionals in fields requiring technical writing. It’s particularly valuable for writers struggling with clarity, those burdened by institutional jargon, or anyone aiming to persuade readers through lean, impactful prose. McCloskey’s lessons also resonate with editors and educators teaching communication skills.

Is Economical Writing worth reading?

Yes—critics praise it as “better than Strunk and White” for its blend of humor and utility. Unlike generic style guides, it addresses nuances of scholarly and technical writing, offering tools to transform bloated drafts into compelling narratives. Its focus on revision and reader engagement makes it a timeless resource for improving writing efficiency.

What are the key writing rules in Economical Writing?

McCloskey’s essential rules include:

• Use active voice to sharpen sentences.
• Avoid jargon and vague abstractions (e.g., say “sheep and wheat” instead of “agricultural outputs”).
• Revise ruthlessly—cut redundant phrases and prioritize readability.
• Ditch footnotes (she calls them “nests for pedants”).

How does Economical Writing differ from other style guides?

While traditional guides like Strunk & White focus on grammar basics, McCloskey’s book emphasizes rhetorical strategy for persuasive communication. It critiques economists’ overreliance on passive voice and statistical jargon, advocating instead for storytelling and conversational tone. Unique advice includes structuring arguments around “throat-clearing” eliminations and prioritizing the reader’s experience.

What critiques exist about Economical Writing?

Some economists argue technical content should outweigh writing style, while others find McCloskey’s tone overly prescriptive. However, most agree her rules address systemic issues in academic writing, such as obscurity masquerading as rigor. Critics praise her focus on revision but note mastering her techniques requires significant practice.

How does McCloskey’s background influence Economical Writing?

As a Harvard-trained economist and historian, McCloskey critiques her field’s opaque writing habits firsthand. Her expertise in rhetoric and classical languages informs the book’s emphasis on clarity and historical examples. Her gender transition memoir (Crossing) also underscores her commitment to authentic communication.

What metaphors or frameworks does McCloskey use?

McCloskey likens poor writing to “muddy water” obscuring ideas and labels excessive adjectives as “fatty tissue.” She frames revision as “sculpting” prose to reveal its essence. The book also introduces the “Bourgeois Deal” concept—writing that respects readers’ time to earn their trust.

How can Economical Writing improve academic papers?

The book teaches writers to:

• Replace passive constructions with direct claims (e.g., “I argue” vs. “It is argued”).
• Use concrete examples over abstract terms.
• Structure arguments narratively, avoiding disjointed data dumps.

These tactics enhance readability and persuasiveness in peer-reviewed journals.

Does Economical Writing address inclusive language?

While not a focus, McCloskey’s push for clarity aligns with inclusive communication. By avoiding elitist jargon and prioritizing accessibility, her rules help writers connect with diverse audiences. The book’s conversational tone itself models this approach.

What famous quotes come from Economical Writing?

• “Economical writing is writing that someone wants to read.”
• “Footnotes are nests for pedants.”
• “You are a salesman, not a policeman”—urging persuasion over coercion.

How does Economical Writing apply to business communication?

McCloskey’s principles help professionals draft emails, reports, and proposals that prioritize actionable insights. For example, using active voice in pitches (“We recommend”) builds confidence, while trimming redundancies saves time for decision-makers. The book also advises tailoring tone to audience expertise.

Is Economical Writing relevant in the AI-driven writing era?

Yes—while AI tools aid grammar and structure, McCloskey’s human-centric focus on persuasion and storytelling remains irreplaceable. The book teaches critical thinking about why and how to communicate, ensuring human oversight in AI-generated content.