Plain Language

Why

Clear, straightforward language is key to ensuring one's message is understood. Economists and lawyers are trained for using "economese" and "legalese," but they must remember the ultimate audience when drafting their work for public use.

How

Style

• Use active voice as much as possible
  
• Use as few words as possible
  
• Avoid Latin words, complex legal terms and complex economic terms
  
• Vary sentence length
  
• Always check for grammar and spelling

Organization

• Draft logical sequence of paragraphs enabling the reader to understand easily

Layout

• Use short paragraphs
  
• Use headings to help the reader follow the logic
  
• Use bullets/numbers where appropriate in order to add clarity

Offer training

• Create a one-day course on plain language writing skills, with practical exercises

Proofreading by communications

• All documents should be reviewed by a communications advisor/officer to ensure they are written in plain language

Read aloud

• If the passages are difficult to say orally, it's a sign that the language is not plain enough

Examples:

European Commission's campaign "Fight the FOG"