Resource of the Week #136: Some Resources on Plain Language
Hello again. This week I’m featuring some resources mentioned at the recent American Medical Writers Association annual conference.
The resources were mentioned at a talk on what is called plain language. The speaker, Dr. Ginny Redish, described plain language as writing in a way that helps people find what they need, understand what they find, and use what they find.
Thus, Dr. Redish said, plain language entails more than using mainly short words and sentences. She explained that it also includes, for example, presenting the main message first, using headings, and writing in active voice.
Dr. Redish listed websites providing information and guidance about plain language. These included the websites of the
- Plain Language Association International
- Plain Language Action and Information Network
- Center for Plain Language
In addition, Dr. Redish noted an article by other researchers. The researchers found that when a website was redesigned to follow principles of plain language, even users with high reading levels could use it more effectively and efficiently than before.
Dr. Redish focused mainly on writing in English for US readers. What about elsewhere? Does plain language apply? Please share your thoughts by posting a comment.
Until the next post—
Barbara