03.6.4 · Skill in Content design
Plain language
Writing that people understand on first read.
Plain language uses common words, short sentences and active voice. It helps everyone, including non-native speakers and stressed users. It is a measurable skill, and readability checks can catch the worst cases.
Resources
2- docsStart hereWriting and editing: plain language ↗Office for National Statistics · 5 min
Practical plain-language rules, including one term per concept and task-first headings.
- docsGo deeperGOV.UK content principles: conventions and research background ↗GOV.UK · 2016 · 30 min
The research behind plain-language conventions, such as why people read less than you think.
Tools
none yetTools for this topic are being researched.