WRITING USER-FRIENDLY DOCUMENTS Plain Language WRITING USER-FRIENDLY DOCUMENTS

PLAIN LANGUAGE WEBSITE http://www.plainlanguage.gov/

Plain Language WRITING USER-FRIENDLY DOCUMENTS An online tutorial A reference manual http://www.plainlanguage.gov/

INTRODUCTION – How can we be better writers? Engage your reader Write clearly Write in a visually appealing style

How can you engage your readers? Identify your audience Organize to meet your reader’s needs Use a question-and-answer format

How can you engage your readers? Use “you” and other pronouns to speak directly to the readers Use the active voice Use the appropriate tone

How can you write more clearly? Use short sentences Write to one person, not to a group. Use the simplest tense you can.

How can you write more clearly? Use “must” to convey requirements Place words carefully Use “if-then” tables

How can you write more clearly? Avoid words and constructions that cause confusion Use contractions when appropriate

How can you make your documents visually appealing? Use lots of informative headings Write short sections Include only one issue in each designated paragraph

How can you make your documents visually appealing? Use vertical lists Use tested emphasis techniques to highlight important points Bold Italics Not ALL CAPS

List of simpler words and phrases http://okhighered.org/grant-opps Grant Writing Resources

Plain Language REVIEW Engage your reader Write clearly Write in a visually appealing style