The Evolution of U.S. Writing Style

The assumption that the U.S. writing style is the best or most rational approach to communication is a myth.

The writing style that is widely practiced and taught in the United States today, and increasingly in the global academic and business scene, is heavily influenced by the rise of modern journalism and its cultural impact. This style prioritizes clarity, efficiency, and accessibility, with an emphasis on directness — often represented by the “conclusion-first” structure found in essays and reports.

However, this method of writing is not universal and contrasts sharply with the more gradual, exploratory approaches seen in traditions from countries like France, Germany, and Japan. The emergence and global dominance of the U.S. style, largely driven by modern journalism’s demands for concise, fast communication, reflect broader trends in how information is processed, shared, and consumed worldwide.

The Rise of Modern Journalism

The roots of this style trace back to the 20th century, particularly as mass media and journalism evolved. In the post-Vietnam War era, when the U.S. saw a surge in university enrollments and broader societal shifts, modern journalism began to heavily shape how writing was taught.