WHAT IS PLAIN ENGLISH
Plain English is a writing style that readers can easily understand. Plain English combines clear, concise expressions, simple sentence structure and a design that is easy to navigate.
BENEFITS OF PLAIN ENGLISH
- Precision – By using fewer words you decrease the risk of vagueness. You can be accurate without using formal language
- Clarity – Studies have shown that plain English can increase understanding by up to 90%
- Readability – Good writing is easy to understand in one sitting. Dressing up language to sound authoritative makes the text less readable
- Translatability – A translation can only be as good as the original: starting from plain English text makes it easier to convey the meaning
- Efficiency – Writing less saves you time and money. A shorter text is cheaper to translate
- Accountability – Using the passive voice makes it harder to call anyone to account
PRINCIPLES OF PLAIN ENGLISH WRITING
- Adapt your style to the needs of your readers
- Use the active voice
- Avoid jargon, clichés and abbreviations
- Explain technical terms in simple language
- Use capital letters only when it is essential
- Use simple and sincere language
- Write the way you speak
- Use shorter words, shorter sentences (15-20 words) and shorter paragraphs (2-3 sentences)
- Use clear design and layout principles: wide margins, dot points, headings and subheadings and generous line spacing
Next time you write something, try putting things down the way you would actually say them.
ASK YOURSELF
- How much does the reader already know about this subject?
- What information do I actually need to give?
- What tone should I use?
- Am I giving instructions or advice?
For more information about Plain English translations and how it can help you better connect with your audience, contact our translations team by emailing us at translations@polaron.com.au or by calling on 1300 88 55 61 .