## Mini Essays [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=0s) - Mini essays are considered one of the best tools for learning, as they provide an opportunity to read and reflect on ideas, as well as practice writing every day, making them a valuable component of personal education [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=0s). - The process of writing mini essays involves structuring them in a way that allows for effective reflection and expression of ideas, and many people have questions about how to start writing them and where to begin [(00:00:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=14s). - After writing hundreds of mini essays over a period of about 10 months, it has been possible to explore and develop a method for writing them, which can be shared with others to help them get started [(00:00:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=25s). ## Personalized Writing [(00:00:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=27s) - The approach to writing mini-essays is not a one-size-fits-all solution, as what works for one person may not work for another, and individual goals and preferences play a significant role in determining the best approach [(00:00:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=27s). - The end goal of writing mini-essays can vary greatly from person to person, with some aiming to improve their writing, produce engaging content, or achieve a specific objective, requiring a tailored approach to suit their needs [(00:00:45)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=45s). - To accommodate different goals and styles, general pointers and a range of structures will be provided, allowing individuals to evaluate and choose the most suitable approach for their needs [(00:01:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=66s). - Starting a mini-essay can be a challenging task, and to help with this, various prompts will be offered to assist in getting started with the writing process [(00:01:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=71s). ## The Four Rules of Mini-Essays [(00:01:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=76s) - When writing mini-essays, it is essential to follow some rules, as creativity benefits from some level of restriction, and these limits exist for a good reason, allowing writers to thrive because of them, not in spite of them [(00:01:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=76s). - The first rule is to keep each mini-essay about one idea only, which narrows the focus down and prevents getting lost in a stormy mess of ideas, and connections between ideas can be made in separate essays or bigger write-ups [(00:02:03)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=123s). - Mini-essays are not the time and place for linking ideas, but rather for writing detailed notes about a single idea, and connections can be made between essays, such as by using a hyperlink feature [(00:02:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=134s). - The next rule is to keep mini-essays short, as their short length is what makes them powerful, and writing long notes can be counterproductive and turn learning into a stressful experience [(00:03:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=185s). - Mini-essays should be long enough to help flesh out ideas and practice writing, but short enough to write in a short amount of time, such as 10 or 20 minutes, and a good rule of thumb is to keep them between 100 and 500 words [(00:04:01)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=241s). - The balance between length and brevity is crucial, as mini-essays should be long enough to be useful, but short enough to keep the experience fresh and realistic in the long term, and it is up to the writer to maintain this balance [(00:04:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=252s). - The idea of mini-essays is to provide a middle ground between rough notes and full-on writing projects, allowing writers to be thorough without feeling overwhelmed, and to practice writing without feeling like they need to write thousands of words [(00:04:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=246s). - When writing a mini-essay, it is essential to keep it short, with a good range being one that can be seen on a computer screen without having to scroll down, which helps train clarity and prevents waffling [(00:04:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=280s). - To maintain organization, a system of tags, folders, and references should be used, as this helps avoid becoming overwhelmed and allows for easy retrieval of information, making it a useful personal writing assistant [(00:04:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=290s). - A system of organization, such as the one used in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]], which includes tags, indexes, and links, can help find specific information quickly, saving hours of work, and is a process that can be set up to suit individual needs [(00:05:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=332s). - Noting down references, including the source of ideas, is crucial, as it saves time and effort in the long run, and prevents the need to scour the internet or play guessing games to find the origin of an idea [(00:05:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=350s). - Linking mini-essays together that are similar can help create a chain of reasoning, allowing for the development of new and interesting questions, and potentially leading to the creation of a longer piece of writing, such as a book [(00:06:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=411s). - The general structure of a mini-essay will be explored, including different styles, which can inspire and be adapted for individual notetaking needs, and can be used to improve writing skills, such as fiction writing, with the help of resources like [[Skillshare]] [(00:07:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=427s). - The foundation of good writing is to avoid using too much description, as it can make the writing clunky and oversaturated, and instead, use longer descriptions more sparsely to create a bigger impact [(00:07:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=458s). - Skillshare is the largest online hub of learning, offering classes for various creative hobbies, including painting, photography, cooking, and video editing, all of which are taught by experts with decades of experience [(00:07:55)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=475s). - The classes on Skillshare can help individuals improve their existing skills or discover new expressions for their creativity, and the first 500 people to join with a link in the description will receive a one-month free trial [(00:08:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=496s). - The classes on Skillshare are suitable for people with more time on their hands, such as during the summer, and can be a valuable resource for those looking to learn new skills or enhance their existing ones [(00:08:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=486s). ## The Three-Part Structure [(00:08:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=506s) - The basic three-part structure of a mini-essay consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion, which can be used as a default structure when unsure of direction or modified to fit specific needs [(00:08:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=506s). - This three-part structure is not inferior to more complex structures, as it still requires strong writing skills and has the potential to be elegant and engaging [(00:08:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=513s). - Mastering the principles of the three-part structure provides a solid foundation for writing in other formats, allowing writers to build a strong base of skills that can be applied to more complex writing tasks [(00:08:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=531s). - Daily practice with the three-part structure is an opportunity for writers to develop their skills and create a strong foundation, much like the deepest roots support the tallest trees [(00:09:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=542s). ## What Makes a Good Intro? [(00:09:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=544s) - A good introduction, or hook, is the first part of the essay structure, and its purpose is to grab the reader's attention while presenting the premise of the mini-essay, making it easier for the body text to shine, and it does not have to be long, usually a sentence or two is sufficient [(00:09:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=544s). - When writing an intro, the first goal is to present what the mini-essay is going to be about with as much clarity as possible, avoiding vague introductions that can confuse or bore readers, and instead, being clear and concise to keep them engaged [(00:09:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=566s). - The second goal of an intro is to generate curiosity or tension, finding a balance between being clear and being painfully blunt, much like favorite TV shows and books that tease with hidden details to create a mystery and keep the audience interested [(00:09:55)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=595s). - To achieve this balance, it is essential to be clear about the main idea while also creating a sense of mystery, making the reader want to continue reading to solve the mystery and piece together the bigger picture, which can be inspiring and satisfying [(00:10:01)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=601s). - There are many options for creating a successful intro, and looking at examples from personal notes or other sources can be helpful in finding inspiration and guidance on how to craft an effective introduction [(00:10:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=630s). ## Steal These Intro Styles [(00:10:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=636s) - The simplest way to start a mini-essay is to begin with a bold statement if the topic is interesting enough on its own, as seen in an example about how video games simulate traditionally masculine activities, which is unique and exciting to read about [(00:10:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=636s). - Using emotional language to tug at the reader's feelings is another approach, as people are emotional and good writers use emotion to keep readers engaged, such as in a note that discusses evil and opens with dramatic imagery to create a sense of hopelessness and curiosity [(00:11:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=671s). - Opening with a question that the reader wants the answer to is also an effective method, as it provides clarity and builds curiosity, such as in a note about the Greek tragedy Agamemnon, where the question of how a father could kill his daughter is posed, sparking the reader's interest and encouraging them to read on [(00:12:17)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=737s). - Emotional language can evoke a range of emotions, including fear, love, hatred, security, freedom, and belonging, which can be used to build upon and create a engaging introduction [(00:12:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=725s). - It is essential to balance clarity and curiosity when starting a mini-essay, avoiding revealing the main point too late, and using techniques such as dramatic imagery and questions to keep the reader engaged [(00:11:59)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=719s). ## Writing the Body Text [(00:13:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=795s) - The fourth hook involves throwing the reader into the middle of a story within the first sentence, taking them straight into the action and making them want to read on to see what happens [(00:13:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=805s). - Writing the body text is the bulk of the essay where the idea is fleshed out, and the goal is to explain, add detail, and guide the reader through the thought process in a clear and understandable way [(00:13:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=831s). - To avoid struggling to express an idea clearly, a 10-second prompt can be used, which involves looking away from the screen, then turning back to it as if seeing it for the first time, and reading it from start to finish to check if it makes sense and flows logically [(00:14:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=864s). - Editing on the go using this prompt can help keep the writing process fluid and result in a piece of text that is logical, clear, and easy to read, which is what writers and readers want [(00:14:58)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=898s). - An example of how to write a body text can be seen in a note on minimalism, where the intro raises an interesting idea, provides background, and paves the way for the rest of the text, and the body text elaborates on each principle mentioned in the intro, answering the question and getting the point across without rambling [(00:15:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=921s). ## Writing a Powerful Conclusion [(00:16:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=971s) - A powerful conclusion is essential in writing, as it wraps up the entire content in a neat package, regardless of the style or topic, and leaves a lasting impression on the reader [(00:16:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=971s). - A well-crafted conclusion can be memorable, such as the ending of a great novel chapter that forces the reader to stop and think, whereas a sloppy conclusion can negate the momentum built in the body text and leave a negative impression [(00:16:23)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=983s). - In the case of a mini-essay, the goal is not to write an award-winning conclusion, but to condense the details into a final message that resonates with the reader and serves as a neat summary of the point [(00:17:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1024s). - A formal conclusion in a separate paragraph may not be necessary, and a simple sentence or two can be sufficient to pin down the big idea, as seen in the example where a brief sentence is used to distill the message of the mini-essay [(00:17:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1044s). - The key to a effective conclusion in a mini-essay is to provide a quick summary that hammers home the message, and it does not need to be elaborate, just a simple interruption that leaves the reader with something to think about [(00:17:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1066s). ## Newsletter Plug [(00:17:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1068s) - The newsletter covers various topics including Reading, Writing, and learning, as well as insights on less discussed subjects, and it is free to subscribe [(00:17:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1068s). - The newsletter also features mini essays, book reviews, and other stories that can aid in personal growth and development [(00:17:53)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1073s). - Subscribing to the newsletter is easy and can be done using the link provided, and it is a great way to access exclusive content and stay updated [(00:18:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1082s). ## Using Storytelling in Mini-Essays (Story Notes) [(00:18:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1084s) - The basic three-part structure of a mini-essay provides a simple yet versatile framework that allows writers to experiment and find their preferred style, and another type of note, known as a story note, uses a story to convey an idea, giving writers the opportunity to practice their fiction writing skills [(00:18:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1084s). - Story notes can take many forms, including made-up stories, retold stories from other sources, or personal experiences, and have been used for thousands of years, from ancient epic poetry to modern times, to communicate ideas and reflect humanity's deepest thoughts and feelings [(00:18:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1116s). - To use stories effectively in a mini-essay, it is essential to first identify the point being made and choose a story that amplifies the message without distracting or confusing the reader, and then think about relevant stories that can be used to illustrate the point, such as personal experiences, memories, or references to literature or TV shows [(00:19:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1148s). - The story note format can be challenging to work with, but it can be made more accessible by using the intro hook to draw the reader into the story, building tension until the climax, and then revealing the big idea or message, and for those who find this format unfamiliar, it is possible to blend the story style with a traditional informative style to create a hybrid note [(00:19:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1188s). - This hybrid approach involves starting with a story and then switching to a non-fiction style in the second half of the note, allowing for a discussion of the story's message and the big idea, and providing a way to make the story note format more manageable and effective [(00:20:18)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1218s). ## Storytelling Examples [(00:20:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1235s) - [[Thomas Sowell]], a famous American economist and social commentator, shared a personal story in his memoir about a period of poverty and rejection, where he had to sell his suit to make ends meet, and the relief he felt when he finally got a decent meal, illustrating the concept that scarcity leads to gratitude [(00:20:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1235s). - This story inspired the creation of a new story about a desperate hiker who runs out of water, panics, and then finds relief when he discovers a spring, also conveying the message that scarcity leads to gratitude, and then transitioning to an informative style to discuss the idea [(00:21:29)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1289s). - Another example is the story of the Dilemma of King [[Solomon]], where two mothers claim to be the mother of a baby, and King Solomon uses a cunning plan to determine the real mother, showcasing the extreme envy of the fake mother and how it drives her actions, with the story effectively conveying the message and the elaboration providing further understanding [(00:22:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1327s). - The use of storytelling in these examples demonstrates its effectiveness in conveying a point and making it more impactful, with the option to switch from a fictional narrative to a non-fictional discussion to elaborate on the idea [(00:23:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1421s). - The stories of Thomas Sowell and the Dilemma of King Solomon serve as examples of how storytelling can be used to illustrate complex ideas, such as scarcity leading to gratitude and the destructive nature of envy, and how they can be used to make a point in a more engaging and memorable way [(00:20:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1235s). ## 23:59 Outro [(00:23:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1423s) - The video aims to provide a foundation for writing mini-essays in a way that is personal and effective, allowing viewers to start writing their own mini-essays [(00:23:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1423s). - Viewers are encouraged to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for them, as there are many things to try out when writing mini-essays [(00:23:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1428s). - The video concludes with a message of good luck to the viewers and an expression of gratitude to the audience for watching, as well as thanks to [[Skillshare]] for sponsoring the video [(00:23:53)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw&t=1433s). ## Sources - [website](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCaOSNxwCsw?si=6_sjGIvxGyp2wEVV)