ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is your personal writing coach. ProWritingAid uses Artificial Intelligence to turn good writing into great writing. It's a grammar guru, style editor, and writing mentor in one package.

CEO and Founder

Founder & CTO

Stitched.io

Advisory Board Member to Stitched. Stitched makes it easy to find, understand and retain the talent in a globally dispersed workforce. Using natural language processing and machine learning, Stitched automatically derives a skills map of your employees based on the way they describe themselves via documents, CVs and simple surveys. The results are better conversations, high-calibre candidates and valuable, long-term placements.

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Market Stack

CTO of startup providing personalised news to the financial sector. Software based on NLP and AI technologies.

Credit Agricole CIB

Creating a 1000+ node grid-based, FX Options Market Risk system.

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Contractor working on an FX Derivatives trading solution. Application component expert for risk analytics.

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DrKW

Research Analyst working in Equity Derivatives and Convertibles. Wrote trading ideas for equity derivatives and convertible bonds.

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Sungard

Systems Analyst

Consultant specialising in Asset Finance solutions

Senior Consultant

I'm fascinated by the power of narrative to transform perspectives and unlock potential. My journey with writing began with generous colleagues who helped me to hone my craft. From those humble beginnings as a novice writer, I realized technology could democratize learning for all.

That sparked a vision to create ProWritingAid—using AI as a personalized writing assistant to help writers strengthen their voice. I wanted to make excellent writing help available to everyone seeking to improve.

Now as CEO, I'm honored to lead a team that empowers writers daily. Our technology delivers tailored feedback you can trust, while our stories inspire you to keep growing on the journey. Writing well takes practice, but our AI writing assistant provides the expert guidance to refine your craft one sentence at a time. Your story is worth telling. Let's write it together.

"I don't know how to write stories." 

(Yes, you do.)

Everyone's a storyteller. 

Here’s how to unlock your narrative prowess on social media with three distinct frameworks:

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(see carousel)

Chris Banks

💡 CEO @ ProWritingAid | Top Storytelling Voice | Teaching you impactful writing with storytelling and psychology

Storytelling frameworks

Why writing fiction is your superpower... 
 
(It's more than just storytelling) 
 
1. Escape reality → forge new worlds 
2. Explore identities → discover yourself 
3. Craft dialogue → master communication 
4. Build suspense → hold attention 
5. Inspire change → impact readers 
 
Writing fiction isn't just creativity; it's creation. 
 
If you unleash it. 
 
→ A line that introduces a hero. 
→ A plot twist that leaves readers in awe. 
→ A final page that changes everything. 
 
Each element crafts a universe of possibilities. 
 
Each element is your impact on the world. 
 
Don't just write stories; live through them. 
 
Choose imagination over monotony. 
 
PS: Have I missed any reasons why fiction writing is awesome? 


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Storytelling transforms how we see the world.

It's an art.

An essential skill in today's content-driven society.

But not all stories stick.

Why do some captivate while others flop?

Here are 3 storytelling hooks that work.

1. The Unexpected Twist

We love surprises.

Predictable stories bore us.

But an unexpected turn?

That keeps us hooked.

Think of your favorite movie.

Didn’t it surprise you?

2. The Emotional Connection

Stories evoke feelings.

They make us laugh, cry, or even angry.

This emotional bond creates a powerful connection.

It’s why we remember certain stories years later.

Make your audience feel something.

3. The Relatable Character

We see ourselves in stories.

Heroes. Villains. The underdog.

Relatable characters make stories memorable.

They draw us in.

We invest emotionally in their journey.

Now, reflect on your favorite stories.

Did they use these hooks?

Probably.

Because they work.

What else?

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Hi, I'm Chris Banks writer and CEO of ProWritingAid, and I love to talk about storytelling, writing, and psychology. Join the conversation by:
+ Commenting
+ Reposting
+ Or following me

Here's a psychology hack I learned to immerse my readers in my writing.

(see carousel)

============

If you liked this post, follow me for more practical advice about harnessing psychology to superpower your 
storytelling.

Mirror neurons for storytelling

Why your brain craves stories: It's not just entertainment. 
 
(It's science.) 
 
Our minds are wired for narratives. Here's why: 
 
1. Stories fuel empathy → we connect deeply 
 
2. Activate our imagination → we see possibilities 
 
3. Simplify complex information → we understand better 
 
4. Mirror life's chaos → we find meaning 
 
5. Stimulate emotions → we remember more 
 
6. Drive motivation → we're inspired to act 
 
7. Build communities → we're not alone 
 
Stories aren't just tales; they're tools for survival. 
 
Our ancestors used stories to: 
 
-> Share vital knowledge. 
-> Strengthen social bonds. 
-> Navigate the world around them. 
 
Today, we use them to: 
 
-> Market products. 
-> Inspire change. 
-> Connect on social media. 
 
Embrace storytelling. It's your brain's favorite way to learn. 
 
Because at the heart of every story is a lesson. 
 
PS: What's a story that changed your life?

What emotions do I want my audience to feel? 

How can I use language, pacing, and imagery to evoke those emotions? 

How can I create moments of tension, release, and transformation that will stay with my listeners long after the story ends?

The answer lies in the power of emotions.

See the slideshow for the 4 key triggers.

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Your story matters. Make it unforgettable.

Using emotion in writing

Want 5x as many people to engage with your writing?
(There are two secrets)

1️⃣ Decreasing friction
2️⃣ Increasing motivation

👇 Let’s dive deeper:

1️⃣ Decrease friction to keep your reader moving without stopping

-> Avoid complex language and jargon: Use simple words. Complex language is like mud; it slows your readers down. If people can stop reading, they will.

-> Eliminate weasel words and phrases: Unnatural phrases often removed by editors that increase friction and bring readers to a grinding halt. Instead of saying "in view of the fact," just say "because." Instead of "add value," say "improve." Keep it real and relatable! 📉➡️📈

-> Readability is key: Ensure your text flows smoothly. If reading is a journey, make it a leisurely drive on a clear road, not a bumpy ride down a muddy and windy country lane. 🚗💨

2️⃣ Increase motivation to make them crave more

-> Use powerful hooks: Begin with a question or fact that shocks or intrigues. Grab attention and don’t let go. 🎣

-> Deliver continuous value: Ensure every paragraph teaches something new or gives a fresh perspective. Fuel their curiosity. 🔍

-> Build personal connection: Share personal stories or relatable experiences. Emotional engagement keeps the brain interested and the heart invested. 💖

-> Make endings actionable: Conclude with a strong call to action. Encourage readers to think, discuss, or act on the information provided. 🚀

Ready to transform your writing? Save this post as a checklist for your next piece of writing.

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Hi, I'm Chris Banks writer and CEO of ProWritingAid, and I love to talk about storytelling, writing, and psychology. Join the conversation by:
+ Commenting
+ Reposting
+ Or following me

In university, I had a problem. 
 
(Word counts challenged me.) 
 
Instead of filling pages, I struggled to hit word counts. 
 
While my friends struggled to cut down their magnum opuses, I struggled to expand my ideas from a nutshell to at least a coconut shell. 
 
Now I've realized that it's not a problem. 
 
No fluff, just substance. 
 
That’s how I write. 
 
Here's why it works: 
 
1. Clarity → Every word has purpose 
2. Impact → Strong messages with fewer words 
3. Engagement → Readers appreciate brevity 
4. Memory → Concise points stick longer 
 
This approach isn't just for essays. 
 
It's for any communication. 
 
Emails, pitches, social media — clarity wins. 
 
If you’re struggling with wordiness, 
try trimming the fat. 
 
See how much stronger your message becomes. 
 
Because in writing, less really is more.

When you write, you don't just communicate—you think. 
 
And better thinking leads to clearer decisions. 
 
Ever noticed how writing changes your approach? 
 
-> Starting a journal entry can turn a rough day around. 
-> Drafting a plan can transform an idea into action. 
-> Writing a letter can mend a strained relationship. 
 
All because the act of writing brings clarity. 
 
This is known as Reflective Writing. Here's why it's vital: 
 
1. Breaks down complex ideas → simpler concepts 
2. Transforms feelings into words → emotional clarity 
3. Encourages self-reflection → deeper understanding 
4. Tracks progress and growth → visible change 
 
Don't just think it over; write it down.

Just finished Jane Eyre and wow. 
 
(It changed me more than expected) 
 
Here's why this was so impactful for me: 
 
1. As a middle-aged white guy → I rarely walk in shoes so different from my own. 
2. Jane's life and challenges → showed me a reality far removed from my privilege. 
3. Her emotional journey → taught me about resilience in the face of adversity. 
4. Witnessing her growth → inspired by her ability to transform pain into strength. 
 
Reading isn't just about entertainment. 
 
It's a journey into other lives, other worlds. 
 
-> They challenge our views and expand our world. 
-> They remind us that different doesn't mean less. 
-> They are essential tools for those with privilege to see beyond it. 
 
Reading is not just a pastime; it's a pathway to deeper human connection. 
 
Are you using this tool to its full potential? 
 
PS: What book should I read next?

Unlock the full potential of active voice today. 
 
(It's time for clearer communication.) 
 
Don't be a politician. 
 
Switch from passive to active voice: 
 
1. "Mistakes were made" → "I made mistakes" 
2. "A decision was made by the team" → "The team made a decision" 
3. "The project was completed ahead of schedule" → "We completed the project ahead of schedule" 
4. "Feedback was given constructively" → "She gave constructive feedback" 
5. "The meeting was led by Jane" → "Jane led the meeting" 
 
Start transforming your sentences now: 
 
More direct. 
More engaging. 
More authoritative. 
 
See the difference? Active voice makes your message stand out. 
 
Ready to change your writing game?

People won't recall your words, but how you made them feel. ❤️ 
 
That's the heart and soul of storytelling. 
 
This emotional connection isn't just powerful; it's the very essence of impactful communication. 
 
Why? 
 
1. Emotions drive decisions → People are more likely to act on what they feel deeply about. 💥 
 
2. Memories are anchored in feelings → The more intense the emotion, the more indelible the memory. 📌 
 
3. Stories evoke empathy → Connecting on an emotional level cultivates understanding, trust, and rapport. 🤝 
 
4. Feelings inspire loyalty → When people feel genuinely valued and understood, they are more likely to return, engage, and advocate for you. 🏆 
 
How you make your audience feel today will shape your influence and impact tomorrow. 
 
Don't just tell a story. Immerse them in the experience. Make them live and breathe it. 
 
Can you feel that impact? It's palpable. It's transformative.

A brand without a story is a brand without a soul. 
 
(Your narrative is crucial.) 
 
Why craft a signature story? Here's why it's vital: 
 
1. Humanize your brand → connect deeply with people 
2. Share your beginnings → earn trust and loyalty 
3. Reveal struggles → demonstrate resilience 
4. Celebrate milestones → inspire and engage 
 
Your brand's essence isn't just in what you sell, but the heart and purpose behind it. 
 
It's about connecting with your customers on an emotional level.

Three outstanding books every aspiring writer should read. I'm always quoting the middle one.

I write about storytelling and other interests

3 super underrated books on writing and storytelling. If you get the principles in these, you can write anything. Great mix of theory and example.

It may sound counter-intuitive, but the more you constrain your creativity, the easier it becomes to be creative.

In the carousel, I present five tricks for writers to harness the power of constraints to fuel their creativity.

(see carousel)

Save these tips for next time you need some creative inspiration.

Constraining creativity for writers

🔥 Ego depletion is your #1 success blocker.  
 
(Here's how to change this now) 
 
When I decided I wanted to become fluent in French, I didn't initially understand the critical concept of ego depletion despite having studied it as part of my psychology training.  
 
Ego depletion refers to the psychological phenomenon where individuals experience a decline in self-control and willpower after engaging in tasks that require decision-making, concentration, or mental effort. 
 
So, my initial strategy of lengthy, intensive French study sessions quickly led to mental exhaustion, undermining my motivation and effectiveness. 
 
I didn't make any progress. 
 
Fortunately, I eventually realized the impact it was having and worked out how to manage my mental resources more wisely and adapt my approach to learning. 
 
The problem was that I was only engaging in high energy activities. When my energy levels were low, I couldn't do them, so I never learnt anything. 
 
To help manage mental energy, I created a list of activities, sorted by the amount of energy and time required.  
 
Here’s a simple example of what that list looked like: 
 
** No Energy ** 
Listen to 🎶 French music or podcasts (15 mins), or view 🖼️ French scenery or cultural content (10 mins) to stay connected without taxing your energy. 
 
** Low Energy ** 
Read 📰 short French articles or stories (20 mins), or practice basic vocabulary with flashcards (30 mins) for gentle linguistic stimulation. 
 
** Moderate Energy ** 
Write about your day in French ✍️ (45 mins), or watch 🎬 French films with subtitles (30 mins) for deeper engagement with the language. 
 
**High Energy ** 
Engage in a language exchange 💬 (30 mins), or complete grammar exercises or reading comprehension 📝 (30 mins) for active and challenging language practice. 
 
Having this list ready is the key because when mental fatigue sets in, you won't be able to think of these things. 
 
When I started learning Spanish, I applied this methodology. Within six months of learning Spanish, my level was better than after three years of French. 
 
Because having the right task for the right energy level allowed me to overcome ego depletion. 
 
Why don't you try creating a similar list for something you're trying to achieve?

Einstein had a golden rule for measuring his understanding of concepts: 
 
(And it’s shockingly simple) 
 
If you can’t explain something in simple terms,  you don't really understand it? 🤔 
 
Here’s how I like to make sure I understand something: 
 
-> Teach it to someone who knows nothing about it 
-> Turn it into an analogy that a 10-year-old would understand 
-> Simplify until it’s a one-liner 
-> Draw it out with basic shapes and stick figures 
 
Test yourself: Can you explain it in under 60 seconds? 
 
Reflect on questions and refine your explanation 
 
Mastering simplicity isn’t just about clarity—it’s about depth. 
 
Turn complex into simple. That's true understanding. 
 
Think you can simplify the complex? Try it out and tag me. 
 
PS: What’s one topic you’ve always found too complex?

Meet Jeff from accounting.  
 
His tales?  
 
Long backstories, endless context.  
 
Jeff could transform his stories using BLUF – Bottom Line Up Front?  
 
Here’s how: 
 
Non-BLUF Story: 
 
"Last Tuesday was particularly busy. I had just returned from a long vacation, and I was sorting through all the paperwork that had piled up. After sifting through various files and dealing with numerous client calls, I stumbled upon a calculation error that, once corrected, saved the company $5K." 
 
Just take the bottom line and move it to the front to get a BLUF Story: 
 
"Yesterday, I discovered and fixed a $5K error in our financial reports. Here’s how it happened." 
 
Why BLUF?  
 
It transforms snoozers into engaging, memorable stories by: 
 
1. Stating the outcome immediately → Sparks curiosity 
2. Providing essential details only → Keeps the audience hooked 
3. Avoiding unnecessary buildup → Preserves energy for the key message 
 
If I want to know the details, I can carry on reading.  
 
If I just want the highlights then I have them in the first line. 
 
Stories should hit hard and fast. Keep it tight; keep it bright. 
 
Do you know a Jeff? Introduce them to BLUF.

Every story element matters.

(Think Gestalt Psychology.)

Gestalt Psychology teaches that in storytelling, every piece must contribute to the whole. 

Gestalt—meaning 'unified whole'—encourages writers to ensure that nothing extraneous litters their narrative.

Consider each story element a puzzle piece:

Introduction → Sets the stage
Characters → Drive the plot
Settings → Build the world
Plot Points → Propel the story
Climax → Delivers the punch
Conclusion → Wraps it up neatly

By the story's end, these elements should snap together to complete a clear, impactful picture. 

If a piece doesn’t fit, it doesn’t belong.

This approach not only streamlines your writing but enhances the reader's experience by keeping them engaged and focused on a cohesive narrative.

Remember:
-> Less is more.
-> Every detail should have a purpose.
-> Your ending should click the last puzzle piece into place.

Crafting your story with Gestalt principles sharpens its impact, making each word count and every moment meaningful.

Plato said, "Those who tell the stories rule society."  
 
This quote underscores the influence and authority wielded by storytellers. 
 
As we craft and share narratives, we should strive to wield this power with care, ensuring that our stories foster understanding, respect, and positivity in society.  
 
Use your skills responsibly, and have a wonderful weekend.

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