Range

A compelling argument for how to succeed in any field is to develop broad interests and skills while everyone around you is hastily trying to specialize.

Many experts believe that anyone who wants to develop a skill, play an instrument, or become a leader in their field should start early, focus intensely, and accumulate as many hours of targeted practice as possible. If you just dabble or hesitate, you will never catch up to those who had a head start. However, a closer look at the research on the world's top performers, from professional athletes to Nobel laureates, shows that early specialization is the exception, not the rule.

David Epstein examined the most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters, and scientists in the world. He found that in most fields—especially complex and unpredictable ones—generalists, not specialists, perform best. Generalists often find their way late and juggle many interests rather than focusing on just one. They are also more creative, agile, and able to make connections that their more specialized colleagues cannot see.

Provocative, rigorous, and captivating, "Range" presents a compelling case for the active cultivation of inefficiency. Failing an exam is the best way to learn. Frequent quitters often end up with the most fulfilling careers. The most influential inventors transcend the boundaries of disciplines rather than deepening their knowledge in a single area. As experts continue to isolate themselves while computers master more and more skills once reserved for highly focused individuals, those who think broadly and embrace diverse experiences and perspectives will increasingly succeed.