Plain language makes information easier to find, understand and use for everyone. It is also an important part of making information more usable for people with cognitive, language and learning disabilities.
It’s also the law. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires the federal government to write clearly. Other laws require plain language for things like mortgages, patient information, and credit cards. Instructions on ballots also need plain language. Research by Janice (Ginny) Redish and Dana Chisnell shows its importance in helping people vote as they intend.
To get started with plain language:
Learn about plain language
The Center for Plain Language website has an overview of plain language and a toolkit for starting a program.
Plain Language: Adding Simplicity to Voting
Josephine Scott’s talk for an EAC Roundtable makes the case for plain language in elections.