The Art of Explanation

Outline

The Art of Explanation (2023) teaches how to explain complex information clearly, whether in a presentation, a meeting, an email, or a conversation. Ros Atkins shares the method he developed as a journalist, including identifying your audience, gathering and organising the key facts, cutting what is not needed, and delivering a message that is precise and engaging. The book is a practical guide to clear communication.

• Start by identifying your audience, because clear explanation depends on knowing who you are speaking to.
• Gather the key facts first, then organise them so the message follows a clear structure.
• Cut whatever is not needed, since extra detail distracts people from the point you want them to remember.
• Aim for a message that is both precise and engaging, so people understand it and recall it later.
• The same method works in a presentation, a meeting, an email or an everyday conversation.

Ros Atkins is a British journalist and presenter at the BBC, known for his short explainer videos that break down complex news stories clearly. He also founded a BBC project to improve gender balance among contributors in the media. The Art of Explanation is his first book.