Plain Language
What is plain language?
Plain language is simple and clear language. It is defined in the Plain Writing Act of 2010 as “writing that is clear, concise, well-organized, and follows other best practices appropriate to the subject or field and intended audience.”
Writing in plain language helps your users:
- Find what they need
- Understand what they find, and
- Use that information to do what they need to do.
Who benefits from plain language?
Many people benefit from plain language, including:
- People with certain kinds of disabilities that impact reading
- People who are not native English users
- People who are learning about something new
Your organization benefits by increasing your reach and improving accessibility.
Is plain language required?
- The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires that federal agencies use clear government communication that the public can understand and use.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires state and local governments and businesses and nonprofit organizations that serve the public to communicate effectively with people with disabilities. Using plain language is one of the ways to achieve this.
How do I get started with using plain language?
There are lots of resources for learning how to write in plain language. This plain language checklist from plainlanguage.gov will get you started. Then check out the additional resources below.
Resources
- Center on Disability: Plain Language and Easy Read
- Center for Plain Language
- plainlanguage.gov
- Plain Language Association International