Shortform Books

Natural Selection: Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution

How did Darwin’s theory affect science and society? How did Darwin’s ideas shape our understanding of evolution and genetics? Charles Darwin’s natural selection theory paved the way for many subsequent theories and discoveries that make up the bedrock of our current understanding of human evolution. However, while Darwin accurately explained the results of evolution, he wasn’t able to figure out how it worked. Here’s how Darwin’s ideas shaped our understanding of genetics.

What Is Product Positioning in Marketing—& Why Does It Matter?

What is product positioning in marketing? How important is it in selling your product? If you work in marketing yet still can’t define what “positioning” is, consultant and speaker April Dunford is here to tell you that you’re not alone. She contends that most marketers don’t fully understand what positioning is or its vital importance to selling. Keep reading to learn what positioning is and why it matters.

Universal Emotions: Psychology Says They Don’t Exist

What are universal emotions in psychology? Do universal emotions even exist? Which emotions are universal? In her book, How Emotions Are Made, neuroscientist and psychologist Lisa Feldman Barrett examined past psychological experiments to create a new theory of emotions in psychology. According to Barrett’s findings, universal emotions don’t exist as many psychologists previously believed. Keep reading to find out why Barrett says universal emotions are a myth, according to psychology.

Is Creativity a Skill? How Creativity Can Be Learned

Is creativity a skill? How can you learn creativity? The Practice by Seth Godin argues that creativity does not require that you be touched by the “muse.” It doesn’t require genius or suffering or even confidence. Instead, creativity is a skill that can be learned. Read more to learn why Godin believes anyone can be a creative mastermind.

The Importance of Feedback in the Workplace: Heighten Your Awareness

Is debate encouraged in your company? Is everyone, regardless of position, listened to? Intel CEO Andrew Grove explains how debating and listening can help you become aware of blind spots, improve your decision-making, and recognize when you’re at a strategic inflection point. He offers two pieces of advice that will help you keep an eye on potential market disruptions so you can respond accordingly. Continue reading to learn the importance of feedback in the workplace in regard to strategic inflection points.

What Are Mental Models, and How Do They Work?

What are mental models? Can they actually help you in life in a practical way? In our unpredictable and competitive world, your ability to make good decisions has an exceptional impact on your success in life and work. Fortunately, you can become a skilled decision maker by using mental models. Keep reading to understand how these powerful thinking tools equip you to cut through complexity and understand the world.

How Was Apple Created? Jobs and Wozniak’s Story

How was Apple created? What made Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak want to make computers? Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson gives readers an inside look into everything Apple and Steve Jobs. He explains how Apple was created, which changed Jobs’s life forever. Check out the history of the Apple company below.

The Sun and Her Flowers: Analysis of Kaur’s Poetry

Looking for an analysis of The Sun and Her Flowers? What are the key takeaways from Rupi Kaur’s poems? In Rupi Kaur’s book of poems, The Sun and Her Flowers, she explores feelings of loss, emptiness, insecurity, and growth. By analyzing Kaur’s poems for these themes, it’s easier to understand Kaur’s commentary on these larger social issues. Read on for our analysis of The Sun and Her Flowers, based on the themes in Kaur’s poems.

How to Prevent Procrastination: 2 Failproof Strategies

Do you tend to procrastinate until the last minute? How can you prevent procrastination before it takes hold of your mind? The longer you procrastinate on an unpleasant or difficult task, the harder it is to get yourself to do it. That’s why it’s important to counteract procrastination before it has a chance to get started. Here’s how to prevent procrastination before it’s too late.

Being a Supportive Parent: Importance & Benefits

What does it mean to be a supportive parent? Why is it important to be supportive? How does being a supportive parent benefit children? According to author Alfie Kohn, today’s parenting advice focuses almost exclusively on a punishment-and-reward system of discipline. Not enough attention is paid to learning how to be a supportive parent outside of disciplining kids. Keep reading for Kohn’s advice on being a supportive parent and why it’s so important.