Is this a good starting point for learning to write well?

Yes. The twenty lessons are self-contained and build from clarity and word choice up to paragraph flow and sentence style. A beginner can work through them in order without prior background.

How does it compare with The Elements of Style or On Writing Well?

It borrows the principles of those classics but adds exercises and fresh examples in each chapter. It is more of a workbook than Strunk & White's terse rulebook or Zinsser's longer narrative guide.

Does it include exercises?

Yes. Each lesson pairs explanations and examples with targeted exercises meant to move you from theory to practice. Answers are not described, so expect to self-assess.

Is it useful for professional or business writing?

It covers precision, eliminating needless words, logical flow and credible sourcing, which apply directly to reports, emails and proposals. It does not focus on marketing copy or storytelling.

Mason Carter, published independently under an independent imprint. There is no major publisher behind it, so editorial polish is less certain than with established style guides.