Captivate by Vanessa Van Edwards explores the science of how to improve people skills. The book presents numerous "hacks" to improve one's social intelligence in various areas, ranging from making a strong first impression to building lasting relationships. It utilizes research from various fields including psychology, neuroscience, and social psychology to provide practical strategies and techniques for enhancing social skills. The book encourages readers to develop a "matrix" of understanding for each person they interact with, including personality traits, appreciation languages, and primary value languages. By decoding these aspects of a person, the book suggests readers can improve their ability to connect, influence, and navigate complex social interactions.