Making Numbers Count

From the bestselling author Chip Heath and accomplished writer Karla Starr comes an essential guide to understanding the power of numbers and how to make them work for you. In Making Numbers Count, the authors delve into the art and science of conveying numerical data in a meaningful and impactful way, transforming cold, clinical statistics into engaging and persuasive narratives. Drawing on years of research, the book offers practical strategies for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills with numbers, whether they're addressing global issues or personal queries.

Have you ever wondered how many hours’ worth of songs you’ve listened to on your Spotify Wrapped this year? Or pondered the true value of your commuting time? Maybe you’ve tried to understand your likelihood of contracting Covid based on the latest statistics, or compared your Netflix viewing hours against the most popular shows. Making Numbers Count offers insights into these questions and more, helping both math enthusiasts and novices translate the numbers that shape our world into relatable and compelling stories.

The authors explore the mental limitations humans face when dealing with numbers. For instance, until recently, most languages lacked words for numbers greater than five, highlighting how our cognitive evolution has not kept pace with the increasing complexity of modern data. In a world where the ability to comprehend and communicate data is more critical than ever, this book becomes a vital resource.

Whether you're interested in understanding global issues like climate change—such as grasping that the Australian wildfires destroyed an area twice the size of Portugal—or simply curious about the everyday statistic that highlights how few people wash their hands after using the restroom, Making Numbers Count equips you with the tools to make sense of these figures. The book explains how to break down complex numbers into manageable and relatable figures, thereby making data more transparent and comprehensible to all.

Chip Heath and Karla Starr introduce six core principles focused on simplicity, concreteness, and familiarity, among others, to reveal what makes a number compelling. They provide actionable steps to transform abstract statistics into engaging stories that capture attention and aid understanding. By using real-world examples and implementing proven techniques, the authors show how anyone can make their communication of numbers more vivid and memorable.

Whether you're a business professional, educator, student, or just someone looking to better understand the numerical data in your life, Making Numbers Count is an invaluable guide that empowers you to bring numbers to life in the most inspiring and effective way possible.