The curse of knowledge in writing

Post 3/10 — reflections on scientific writing, clarity, and communication
One of the biggest challenges in clear communication is what Stephen Pinker refers to as the curse of knowledge. The idea is simple, yet powerful: once we understand something, it becomes very difficult to remember what it felt like not to understand it.

This creates a fundamental problem in writing.

As we learn, our brains train us to see the function of things. A pair of scissors is for cutting (not just two sharp blades attached to a handle). A mathematical model describes a system (not just a collection of letters and symbols). A plot illustrates a trend (not just a few straight and wiggly lines). These meanings become so natural to us that we no longer notice what it’s like to be unfamiliar with them.

However, the reader may not share that perspective. Instead of seeing clear functions, they may simply encounter unfamiliar words and concepts without an obvious interpretation.

I was reminded of this very clearly when I became a parent. At Christmas, we carefully wrap presents, expecting excitement when they are opened. Yet small children often end up playing with the wrapping paper instead of the gift.

Why is that?

Because they do not yet see the “function” of the wrapping paper. To them, the wrapping paper itself is interesting, engaging, and worth exploring. In their eyes, it is not merely a means to an end — it is the object of interest.

Writing works in much the same way. As writers, we assume that readers see what we see. But often, they do not.

There are a few simple ways to address this:

• Assume the reader knows less than you first think
• Use concrete examples to clarify abstract ideas
• Ask a colleague or friend to read your text and identify where the meaning becomes unclear

The curse of knowledge extends far beyond writing. It influences communication in general, shaping how we explain ideas, teach concepts, and interact with others.

Once you become aware of it, you begin to notice it everywhere.

PS: The image was generated by AI. And I promise, the child is not real.