How to write in plain English

This guide from the UK based Plain English Campaign, provides an introduction and tips for writing in plain English.  

Excerpt

"The guide looks at the main ways to make writing clearer.

  • Keep your sentences short
  • Prefer active verbs
  • Use 'you' and 'we'
  • Use words that are appropriate for the reader
  • Don't be afraid to give instructions
  • Avoid nominalizations
  • Use lists where appropriate

The guide [also] looks at the difficult subject of apologising, and deals with some of the myths that can get in the way of clear communication. The guide finishes with a summary and a list of words to avoid." (Plain English Campaign)

Sources

Plain English Campaign. Plain English Campaign, (n.d.). How to write in plain english. Retrieved from website: http://www.plainenglish.co.uk/files/howto.pdf

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