Plain English
Plain language is clear, concise and easy to read. Plain language alternative terms include Plain English or Plain writing.
Why is using Plain English important?
- Plain English is part of accessible communication.
- Plain English makes your communication more accessible for all audiences.
- Plain English can especially benefit readers with dyslexia and visual impairments.
- Writing in plain English helps readers understand your message.
- Plain English helps your audience understand what action they need to take.
Resource: University of Kent: Why Plain English
Plain English – Top Tips and resources
You can use Plain English in any communications. For example, emails, your Blackboard course space and teaching and learning materials.
- Think about your audience.
- Open with what matters most to your audience.
- Use “you” and “we”.
- Avoid the passive voice.
- Keep sentences and paragraphs short.
- Use lists.
- Use the simplest words that work.
- Avoid nominalisations (“zombie nouns”).
Check your writing using the Hemingway editor. Paste your draft text into the Hemingway editor. The editor helps you spot:
- overly-long sentences
- passive voice
- complex words that you can replace with simpler words
Sources:
