Plain English Guidelines: Use clear layout to present your plain words in an easily accessible way.

Plain English needs to be complemented by effective layout otherwise only half the job is done. Study plenty of different documents to get a feel for good layout. Notice how page size, the type of font, and font size affect legibility. What makes things stand out? Are items within the document consistently presented in headings, lists, etc. Consider which documents are easy on the eye, and why? Which organize the material well, and how do they do this?

Keep Sentences Short Use Easy to Understand Words Use Fewer Words Use Active Voice Use Crisp, Lively Verbs Use Vertical Lists Put your Point Positively Reduce Cross-referencing Avoid Sex Specific Usage Letter Writing Use Accurate punctuation Avoid Writing Myths Plan Before you Write Organize your material Presentation Writing Clear Instructions Use a Clear Layout

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