BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Summary

BLUF ("Bottom Line Up Front") is the idea that clear writing should begin with the most important information—the conclusion or the answer—first, and then proceed to explain and offer supporting details.


BLUF is a military communications principle. In high-stakes combat situations, the clarity and immediacy of communication can mean the difference between life and death.

Beyond insurgencies and invasions, BLUF is useful for all types of communication, from immediately hooking the reader’s attention in an article to piquing the CEO’s interest in a cold email. BLUF allows you to:

  • Provide all the context needed for the reader to take action (and no more),

  • Focus busy people and limited attention spans on the words that really matter, and

  • Refine your thinking and communicate in the clearest way possible.

Here’s an example of fluffy, indirect writing. There is useful information within these three paragraphs, but it takes time and mental effort to understand:

Over the course of two years, we have taken considerable time to delve into and analyze the implications and applications of AI in the field of writing. Our journey took us through various generative writing tools such as GPT-3, Copy.ai, Writer, Jasper, and ChatGPT. We have pondered, dissected, and debated our experiences with these tools, weighing up their strengths and limitations.

After much deliberation, we came to a realization that brought clarity to our endeavors. What we found is that AI could serve as a beneficial tool, amplifying the capabilities of accomplished writers, acting as a force multiplier of sorts. It wasn't a conclusion we reached lightly or hastily, but one we can confidently assert now.

This newfound conviction has influenced our approach and is gradually shaping the way we work. We have started incorporating AI tools in our process and also offer it to our customers who are equally excited about exploring this new frontier. But let's be clear: we are doing so in a calculated, thoughtful manner. We're conscious of ensuring that the use of AI augments, rather than detracts from, our work.

And here’s the same idea, BLUF’ed:

“AI is a force multiplier for great writers. And because we think it’s an advantage, we’re incorporating it — in thoughtful, measured ways — into the work we do for ourselves and for our customers.”

Deep dive