How To Use Plain Language on a Government Website

Keep it simple. Fancy words often confuse more than impress, especially on the web. Choose words that are concrete, familiar, and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and legalese. Whenever possible, use pronouns like “we” and “you,” and eliminate acronyms most readers won’t understand.

Write in an easy-to-understand style. Speak directly to your readers — using “you” and “we” — to make the information more personal and relevant. Write in the active voice, not the passive voice, and use simple verb tenses.

Organize your writing. Put the most important information first, use a consistent layout, and incorporate simple formats. Use descriptive titles and headings that include the keywords your readers are searching for, so search engines can find your content.

Monitor your writing. If someone can’t understand the text the first time they read it, it’s not written in plain language. Get feedback from peers and customers, then fix mistakes and make improvements.

Everyone, from the top down, should learn to use plain language. Encourage your staff to attend training through Web Manager University, and consider bringing in a plain-language expert to train your team. Improve your site with clear, concise, and well-organized writing to help search engines find your content, ensure people get quick answers, and reduce help-desk questions. Plain and simple.