THE POWER OF THE 20%
Andrea Pacini —
Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto noticed something curious in his garden. Only a small number of pea plants were producing the majority of the peas.
Around the same time, he also saw that 80% of Italy’s wealth was held by 20% of the population.
That observation became a broader idea now known as the 80/20 principle – the idea that a small portion of input often leads to the majority of results.
Presentations work the same way.
Out of everything you plan to say, only a few key points will make a lasting impact.
That 20% – the core message, the key insight – is what your audience will carry with them.
The rest often fades.
So choose your 20% with care.
This reflection is adapted from Timeless Presenter, my book on the principles of communication that never expire.