This guide begins with an introduction called, ‘So what’s plain English?’
The guide then looks at the main ways to make writing clearer.
▪ Keep your sentences short
▪ Prefer active verbs
▪ Use ‘you’ and ‘we’
▪ Use words that are appropriate for the reader
▪ Don’t be afraid to give instructions
▪ Avoid nominalisations
▪ Use lists where appropriate
The guide then looks at the difficult subject of apologising, and deals with some of the myths that can get in the way of clear communication.
The guide finishes with a summary and a list of words to avoid.