Plain English Guidelines: Use the clearest, crispest, liveliest verb to express your thoughts.

It is a simple truth that in most sentences you should express action through verbs, just as you do when you speak. Yet in so many sentences the verbs are smothered, all their vitality trapped beneath heavy noun phrases based on the verbs themselves.

Example:

• I have now had sight of your letter to Mr Jones
• The group considers that the director of community services should proceed with the introduction of as many mini-recycling centres as the budget allows.
• Notification has been received from the insurers that they wish to re-issue the Tenants Scheme Policy.

Reinstating the verb in the sentence produces much crisper writing.

Example:

• I have now seen your letter to Mr Jones.
• The group considers that the director of community services should introduce as many mini-recycling centres as the budget allows.
• The insurers have notified us that they wish to re-issue the Tenants Scheme Policy.

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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