Content Information
Aim for an 8th-grade reading level or below, if possible. Plain language and lower reading levels makes content accessible and easier to translate.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, more than half of Americans between the ages of 16 and 74 read below a 6th-grade level. Written material should be at a level most of the population can understand, also known as plain language.
Plain language is reader-focused, using an active voice and everyday language. It uses only as many words as necessary.
For many agencies, technical content is hard to cut. But did you know that plain language is actually preferred by people of all education levels? In fact, Nielsen Norman Group has found that even experts and doctorate graduates prefer plain language over jargon.
To learn more about plain language, visit these resources and tools:
- HemingwayApp - Write cleaner, more human copy at attainable and inclusive grade levels.
- Plain language alternative words - Tips from PlainLanguage.gov on alternative words to make content easier.
Digital.gov: Best Practices for Writing for the Accessible Web - High-level, easy-to-follow tips about how to write accessible, inclusive content online.