Best Practices for Writing in Plain Language

It’s always a good idea to write course content in plain language. It helps more people understand the message easily and quickly.

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Here are some tips for writing in plain language:
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• Use short sentences (e.g., an average of 15-20 words).
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• Use short paragraphs (three to five sentences) covering one idea only.
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• Vary your sentence length and structure.
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• Use personal pronouns such as “you”, “we”, and “us”.
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• Tailor words to your audience (make sure you know who your target audience is and then choose the simplest words to convey meaning to that audience).
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• Eliminate jargon (unless your target audience is certain to understand industry or product-specific terms).
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• Use an active voice (An active voice states who does what. Some clues to a passive phrase include a form of the verb “to be”, such as “are”, “was”, or “were” and a past participle, often ending with “ed”).
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• Give clear instructions in step-by-step order..
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• Use transition words to help orient the learner (this or that, first-second-third, however, to summarize, etc.).
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• Use positive language.
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• Use lists, tables, or illustrations where appropriate.

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Here are some resources for more information:
Plain Language.gov.‍
Improving Communication from the U.S. Federal Government to the Public

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Plain Language Association International.
At the heart of clear writing across disciplines and around the world.