🖋️ Cormac McCarthy’s Writing Wisdom for Scientists

For over 20 years, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Cormac McCarthy has helped scientists at the Santa Fe Institute refine their writing. His advice, distilled by Van Savage and Pamela Yeh, emphasizes clarity, simplicity, and storytelling.

✨ Key Principles

• Simplicity is paramount: Focus on telling a coherent, compelling story with minimal clutter.
• Minimalism for clarity: Remove unnecessary punctuation, words, or sections if they don’t serve the core message.
• Define your theme: Choose 2–3 key points and ensure every part of the paper supports them.
• One idea per paragraph: Even a single sentence can stand alone if it conveys a clear message.

🧠 Style and Structure Tips

• Short, direct sentences: Avoid complex constructions and excessive transition words.
• No footnotes or jargon: These disrupt flow and alienate readers.
• Avoid repetition and over-explanation: Say things once, clearly.
• Grammar guided by speech: Prioritize being understood over strict rules.

✍️ Tone and Voice

• Use a personal, engaging tone: Passive voice doesn’t make writing more objective.
• Colloquial language is okay: But avoid region-specific expressions.
• Concrete examples: Replace abstract terms with vivid imagery (e.g., “red balloon” instead of “colored sphere”).

🔢 Handling Equations

• Keep math separate from prose using line breaks and intuitive notation.
• Explain transitions between assumptions, equations, and results clearly.

📚 Final Steps

• Read aloud: It helps catch awkward phrasing and rhythm issues.
• Find a trusted editor: Make their job easier with clean formatting.
• Accept feedback gracefully: Revise when needed, but defend your choices respectfully.
• Write for yourself: Aim to create a paper you’re proud of, not one tailored to anonymous reviewers.

McCarthy’s ultimate message? Make your writing lively and accessible so readers want to spend time with it. Whether you're a scientist or a novelist, that’s the shared goal.