If you've ever stared at a blank screen wondering how to end your blog post, wrap up your presentation, or conclude your book chapter, you're not alone. While the internet is bursting with conventional writing advice, sometimes the most effective techniques are the ones that seem a bit... weird. As a ghostwriter who's helped countless experts craft compelling books and content, I'm here to share five unconventional writing tips that are scientifically proven to work.
Why Weird Writing Tips Matter
Before we dive into these unusual strategies, let's acknowledge something important: writing isn't just about stringing words together. It's about understanding how our brains process information and crave closure. These weird tips work because they're grounded in psychology, not just traditional writing rules.
Tip #1: The Hemingway Cliffhanger - The Power of What You Don't Write
Ernest Hemingway famously advised writers to "write the truest sentence that you know." But here's a weird twist: sometimes the most powerful sentences are the ones you leave unwritten.
Consider this scenario: You're writing an article about productivity. You've outlined the problem brilliantly, shared some compelling psychology, and included relatable anecdotes. But instead of wrapping everything up neatly, you drop this:
"Next, we'll unveil a simple yet counterintuitive technique that can triple your productivity overnight. But before we can do that, we need to explore two common myths about efficiency that often hold us back."
This strategic cliffhanger leverages the Zeigarnik effect – a psychological principle showing that people remember unfinished tasks better than completed ones. By intentionally interrupting the resolution, you make your ideas more memorable and keep readers engaged.
Tip #2: The Russian Nesting Doll Technique
Imagine those traditional Matryoshka dolls where each one opens to reveal a smaller version inside. This same principle can create incredibly satisfying resolutions in your writing.
Here's how it works:
Present your immediate solution
Nest it within a larger context
Connect it to an even broader vision
For example, in a business proposal, instead of simply recommending a new customer feedback system, you might write:
"By implementing this new customer feedback system, we won't just improve satisfaction scores. We'll be laying the foundation for a culture of continuous improvement that will keep our company on the cutting edge for years to come."
This approach satisfies our need for closure on multiple levels – providing both immediate gratification and longer-term vision.
Tip #3: The Goldilocks Cadence
Just like the famous porridge in the fairy tale, the rhythm of your resolution needs to be "just right." Too abrupt, and it feels jarring. Too drawn out, and it loses impact.
Consider this example about work-life balance:
"In a world that glorifies hustle and grind, it's easy to forget that rest is not a luxury, but a necessity. By prioritizing downtime, setting boundaries, and giving ourselves permission to disconnect, we're not just improving our individual well-being. We're redefining what it means to be successful in the modern workplace."
The cadence here provides closure while inviting readers to continue the conversation in their minds.
Tip #4: The Dialogue Resolution
Great writing feels like a conversation, not a lecture. This is especially true when crafting resolutions. Instead of simply stating your conclusion, frame it as a dialogue with your reader.
For instance, in a piece about procrastination:
"At this point, you might be thinking, 'But wait, isn't the whole point of procrastination that we avoid the things that scare us?' And you're absolutely right. That's why the counterintuitive solution is to lean into that fear. By starting each day with the task that scares us the most, we build our courage muscle and take away procrastination's power. It's like giving your demons a great big bear hug."
This approach creates a shared "aha moment" rather than a top-down declaration.
Tip #5: The Everyday Epiphany
Not every piece of writing needs to change the world. Sometimes, the most powerful resolutions come in small packages. Even routine communications can benefit from a mini-epiphany that ties everything together.
In a project update email, you might write:
"As I reflect on this project, I'm realizing that the challenges we faced have also been opportunities in disguise. By navigating unexpected roadblocks, we've been forced to think creatively and develop new problem-solving skills. In a way, this project isn't just about delivering a product – it's about growing as a team and expanding what we're capable of."
This approach elevates everyday communication by providing both closure and fresh perspective.
The Psychology Behind These Weird Tips
These unconventional techniques work because they align with how our brains process information and seek meaning. Research in cognitive psychology shows that our minds are constantly looking for:
Pattern completion (The Zeigarnik effect)
Hierarchical understanding (Russian nesting dolls)
Rhythm and timing (Goldilocks cadence)
Social connection (dialogue resolution)
Meaning-making (everyday epiphany)
Putting These Weird Tips into Practice
The beauty of these weird writing tips is their versatility. Whether you're:
Crafting a high-stakes business proposal
Writing a compelling blog post
Developing a keynote speech
Composing an important email
Working on your next book
These principles can help you create more satisfying and memorable resolutions.
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Works Cited
Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the greatest human strength. Penguin.
Hemingway, E. (1964). A moveable feast. Charles Scribner's Sons.
Zeigarnik, B. (1938). On finished and unfinished tasks. A source book of Gestalt psychology, 300-314.
Pink, D. H. (2018). When: The scientific secrets of perfect timing. Riverhead Books.
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