Here are some guidelines for writing information in a way that is easier for people to read and understand. 

Use shorter words.

For example, ‘help’ instead of ‘assistance’. 

Keep your sentences short.

Aim for an average length of 15 to 20 words. 

Write the in the way you would talk.

Use conversational language instead of using business language (but you can still make the language relevant to your audience).For example, use the word ‘change’ instead of ‘adjustment’ or ‘amendment’. 

Avoid jargon and explain any technical words or acronyms.

For example, ‘results’ instead of ‘outputs’. 

Use active sentences.

For example, ‘we will answer all calls’ instead of ‘calls will be answered by the department’. 

Be positive instead of negative.

For example, ‘many people were satisfied’ instead of ‘a few people were dissatisfied’. 

Pay attention to spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Do not over use capitals.

Only use them for proper names and titles. 

Use lists where appropriate

Websites that can help you

www.plainenglish.co.uk

www.clearest.co.uk

idea.gov.uk

On-line tools to check your work

Drivel Defence software from the Plain English Campaign website

Drivel Defence 

The Gunning Fog Index is a simple way to calculate how difficult a piece of text is to read based on the sentence and word lengths. The higher the index then the more difficult it will be to read. You can use the following website to check your work.

kasaubon.com