1. 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)
Plain English writing is a communication style that focuses on making information clear, simpler and easy to understand for the reader. Instead of using complicated vocabulary or long technical sentences, Plain English uses everyday language that most people can quickly read and understand. The main goal is not to sound overly theoretical, but to communicate in a direct and practical way.
In class, we discussed that plain english writing is about writing with the reader in mind. This means organizing information logically, choosing familiar words, and removing unnecessary complexity. It also involves presenting information in a way that helps readers find what they are looking for without confusion. Plain english writing does not mean removing important details. Instead, it means explaining those details clearly and efficiently.
Plain english writing is especially important for websites because users often scan content quickly rather than reading every word. If the writing is too complicated, users may leave the page or misunderstand the message. Clear communication helps build trust more and improves the overall user experience.
Overall, plain english writing can be described as writing that is clear, concise and focused on helping the reader understand information quickly and accurately.
Ref: (Prof. Briscoe, Class lecture plain writing discussion)
b. What makes plain English writing different? (4 Marks)
What makes plain English different is focus on clarity, simplicity, and reader understanding rather than complexity of formal language. Unlike traditional writing that may use long sentences, technical terms, or unnecessary details, plain english writing removes anything that does not help the reader understand the message. It prioritizes communication over style or sophistication. (Prof Briscoe, Plain language writing tips pdf , slide 9)
Another key difference is that plain english writing is designed specifically for the reaper. Writers are encouraged to think about what the audience needs to know and how they will use the information. This means using everyday words, writing in a logical order and making instructions or information easy to follow. For example, plain english writing often uses short sentences, lists and clear heading to improve readability and make content easier to scan. (Prof Briscoe, w8- writing website copy & plain language writing w26 pdf, slide 14)
Plain english writing is also different because it avoids unnecessary words and complicated expressions. Instead of trying to sound impressive, the goal is to communicate clearly and efficiently. This makes information easier to understand, reduces confusion and helps readers quickly find what they are looking for. Overall, plain english writing stands out because it focuses on making communication practical, direct and user friendly.
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 refers to creating website content that is clear, simple and easy for visitors to understand quickly. It focuses on delivering important information in a direct and organized way so that users can easily find what they need without confusion. Since people usually scan web pages instead of reading every word, web content must be written in a way that allows readers to understand the message immediately. (Prof Briscoe, W8- writing website copy & plain language writing w26pdf, slide 12)
Plain writing for the web is important because online users have limited time and attention. If the content is too complex or difficult to understand, visitors may leave the website quickly. Clear and concise writing helps keep users engaged, improves their experience and supports the overall success of the website. Research discussed in class shows that people are more likely to understand and interact with content when it is written in plain english.(Prof Briscoe , w8- writing website copy & plain language writing)
For a business such as Lens Stories by P, plain language writing helps communicate services clearly to potential clients. It ensures that visitors understand what the business offers, how the services work and how they can contact the business. Overall, plain language writing for the web improves communication, supports user satisfaction, and increases the chances that visitors will stay on the website and take action.
Leave a Reply