Attention is a zero-sum game, especially in business. So, we need to get to the point fast.
The Minto Pyramid Principle can help you in this regard. It’s a method of communication that forces to you to lead with the conclusion, and then logically support it with layers of reasoning. I find it especially useful when writing detailed emails and reports.
Here’s a basic visual representation:
For a deep-dive, check out the creator’s website: barbaraminto.com
Below is a brief description followed by an example.
1. Start with the answer
As per the image above, at the top of the pyramid is the main idea or solution to a problem. This is what we lead our communication with.
This approach is often the opposite of how we might naturally try to explain something, where we build up to the main point.
By starting with the conclusion though, we immediately clarify what we’re talking about which makes the communication more efficient and easier to understand.
2. Provide the key arguments
As we move down the pyramid, we start adding our arguments. These should be grouped, summarized, and explain why we should buy-in to the answer.
When we put together and briefly explain our supporting points, it becomes simple to move from one idea to the next without getting into too much detail immediately.
3. Support your arguments
We may still have to prove the main points are true. This can be done by providing more information like facts, proof, numbers, and outcomes. This is when we can really explain things in depth if relevant. People who are very busy might not read this part, but sometimes it’s important for them to agree with or act on the conclusions.
At times, you might not need to give all the details if your main points are strong enough to support your final thought and you’re sure your audience will get it.
Lastly, we need to check that the ideas put in each group really fit together, are just as important as each other, and make sense in the order they were put them.
Example
Let’s apply the Minto Pyramid Principle to a fictional cybersecurity assessment project. This example demonstrates how we could communicate the findings and recommendations of the assessment via email.
| Conclusion | Key arguments | Supporting details |
Hi team,
Our IT contractor just completed the cybersecurity assessment project, below is a summary of the results.
Some big security gaps in our internal IT system were found. We need to act fast on: patching up security holes, updating our security software, and training our team about cyber threats.
The main findings:
– Several software vulnerabilities were discovered that could allow unauthorized access to our systems.
– A significant portion of security breaches is due to human error or lack of awareness.
– Current encryption implementations are outdated and vulnerable to new forms of cyberattacks.
Supporting details:
– The assessment uncovered 5 high-risk vulnerabilities in our core operating systems, already exploited in similar industries.
– Analysis shows that 70% of recent breaches involved some form of phishing or social engineering that could be mitigated with better training.
– Competitive benchmarking indicates that adopting the latest encryption standards could enhance data security by over 50%.
Feel free to read the full assessment attached to this email.
In our example we start with a clear recommendation right away. We then explain this with the main findings, and back them up with detailed data and results. This approach ensures that the audience gets the most important information first. They can delve into the details if they want, but they don’t have to wade through them just to understand the main message.