Plain language, plain English

[using the term plain language encapsulates plain English]

Using plain English achieves the following:

·      The purpose and key messages are clear.

·      The language is clear, everyday words in straightforward sentences that have an average length of 20 words.

·      Each sentence contains only one subject or idea.

·      The sentences are mostly active and positive.

·      The paragraphs are reasonably short and in a logical, preferably positive to negative order.

·      Acronyms and technical terms are defined.

·      Grammar, punctuation and spelling are correct.

·      The layout and presentation used; fonts, white space, margins, headings and possibly graphics, support readability.

‘When you use plain English you write so your readers understand what you want them to know, or to do, the first time they read your words’ (Write Group Limited, n.d.)

There are some limitations to the use of plain English practice.

·      Writing plainly and directly is not easy. It takes time and understanding of the source, process and required outcome to compose.

·      Plain English is not an absolute and is only a guideline that can be applied to the audience it is created for. (Cutts, 2007, p.3-4)

Plain English movement

The use of plain English is an active and ongoing global campaign for technical and professional writers to provide clear, easily understood information for their readers.