We spoke about Plain English writing in class. Please answer the following in detail:

a. How would you explain to someone what “Plain English writing” is? (4 Marks)

English plain writing is clear, concise, correct, and easy to understand language. (Briscoe, W8 - A - Plain Language Writing (W25).pdf, Slide 3). It uses simple terminology, avoiding using complex and unnecessary words to not create confusion, making sure everyone who reads it understands it. The goal is to be straightforward for the message to be conveyed. For example, it is really important when stating rules to ensure they are followed. If people don’t understand what they can do, how can they avoid doing it?

Plain English focuses on the reader’s needs, making sure that the content is relevant is relevant to them, it is well-organized, and doesn’t have ambiguity, so people with different literacy levels can understand.

b. What makes plain English writing different? (4 Marks)

Differently than other styles, plain English writing uses simple words and short sentences to avoid confusion. Other styles typically use complex vocabulary and end up confusing some people. In plain English writing the content has to be clear and can’t be ambiguous. It has to be logic and guide the reader though the message. Another reason why plain English writing is different is that it doesn’t use unnecessary words, it is concise and only includes words that are important for the reader’s understanding, it is direct and goes straight to the point, prioritizing the reader’s understanding, ensuring the content is fits everyone’s needs.

c. What is plain language writing for the web and in detail and in your own words, why is it important? (4 Marks)

Plain language writing for the web is creating online content that is easy to read and understand, leaving no space for confusion. It uses short paragraphs, bullet points, headings, and spaces and visuals to separate text and help guide the reader’s eye. 

This style is important because readers usually scan the content instead of reading it word-for-word. The plain language is straight to the point, so it ensures that users can quickly find the information they need, which improves user experience and engagement. It also is accessible for all audiences, especially those with limited literacy or people who don’t have English as their first language since it is easy to understand. Plain English writing has become even more important with time as people’s attention spans are getting shorter each day because it helps convey key messages more effectively.