Copy Experts To Learn

Shaan Puri and Sam Parr discuss how the best way to develop skills is through studying and imitating experts rather than trying to create original content from scratch. This approach applies across various disciplines, from writing to music.

• The Power of Learning from Others:

  • Being a fan of others' work helps you identify what makes their content effective
  • You pick up subtle techniques by studying multiple examples
  • Understanding "the bar" comes from seeing what great work looks like

• Copywriting Specific Approach:

  • Handwrite word-for-word content from writers you admire
  • Use copywork as a warm-up exercise (5-10 minutes) before writing
  • This method helps develop voice and style faster than theoretical learning

• Universal Learning Principle:

  • Applies across different skills (writing, music, cooking)
  • Examples:
    • Guitar: Learn by playing covers before writing original songs
    • Cooking: Master existing recipes before creating original dishes
    • Writing: Copy great writers before developing your own style

• Key Benefits:

  • Faster skill development compared to traditional learning
  • Helps overcome creative blocks
  • Naturally absorbs the voice and style of experts
  • Prevents "flat and boring" content
  • More effective than trying to develop original voice from scratch

• Practice Method:

  • Start with direct imitation
  • Progress from "shitty" first attempts
  • Gradually improve through repetition
  • Eventually add your own twist
  • Finally develop original content