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How to write in plain English

Get your information across clearly and concisely by following these suggestions from the Plain English Campaign.

• Stop and think before you start writing. Make a note of the points you want to make in a logical order.
• Prefer short words. Long words will not impress your customers or help your writing style.
• Use everyday English whenever possible. Avoid jargon and legalistic words, and explain any technical terms you have to use.
• Keep your sentence length down to an average of 15 to 20 words. Try to stick to one main idea in a sentence.
• Use active verbs as much as possible. Say 'we will do it' rather than 'it will be done by us'.
• Be concise.
• Imagine you are talking to your reader. Write sincerely, personally, in a style that is suitable and with the right tone of voice.

Useful tools: The Plain English Campaign have a guide to writing in plan English which you can download from the free guides section of their website. 

With thanks to the Plain English Campaign for allowing us to adapt this material.