Plain Language Writing at a Glance

Plain language writing means creating a document that is:

• visually inviting,
• logically organized, and
• understandable on the first reading.

To create a Plain language document:

• know your audience
• know what you need to say
• organize your material logically
• avoid repetition

Use these tools to write clearly:

• active voice with strong verbs
• short sentences
• personal pronouns
• concrete, familiar words
• no surplus words
• no legal jargon
• tabular presentation of complex information
• design and layout that increase comprehension