Section One

What do we mean by clear writing?

Clear writing is a way of presenting information so that it is easy for everyone to read and understand. Sometimes it is referred to as readability, plain English, plain writing or clear language and design. Generally these terms all refer to the same idea. As you will see from this booklet, clear writing is not some mysterious process, but it may challenge some of the ideas you have learned, or come to accept, about writing.

Clear writing includes more than just the words that are used and how they are put together. It considers how the material looks, as well as what it says. It cqnsiders what the reader needs to know, as well as what the writer wants to say. Most important, it is writing that can be read and understood by as many people as possible.

The Ontario Literacy Coalition believes that no one should be at a disadvantage because they don't read well. If material is written clearly, it will be easier for people who don't read well to get the information they need.

How can you recognize clear writing and design?

Materials that use clear writing and design follow some general principles:

They focus on the information that readers want or need to know.

They respect the reader's background and intelligence.

They use familiar language and a straightforward writing style.