Cal Newport is the book’s author. While much of the book is written as a self-help manual, Newport frequently diverges into accounts from his own life. As a writer, professor, and researcher, Newport is trained in computer science and programming. He obtained his PhD from MIT, and while there, he discovered some of the skills he mentions in Deep Work. He argues that one should adopt a more thoughtful way of approaching work and study. Newport’s approach is a combination of his own experiences mixed with data.

Newport anticipates resistance toward his ideas and frequently addresses this throughout the book. Newport frequently summarizes his main points before moving onto the next section or idea. Newport he lays out a case for conversion to deep work principles. Occasionally, Newport refers to himself as a “curmudgeon” and a “Luddite” because his views and opinions on social media are often considered negative. He has measured social media’s value in his life and has determined that it does not enhance it. He is aware that he is not immune to the many challenges posed by living in the modern era in which opportunities for distraction come incessantly.