Get the free Plain language style guide for documents

Plain language style guide for documentsItem typeReportAuthorsHealth Service Executive (HSE) Health Promotion Unit; National Adult Literacy Agency (NASA)PublisherHealth Service Executive (HSE)Downloaded28Nov2017

How to fill out plain language style guide

How to fill out a plain language style guide:

1. Start by gathering all relevant information and resources that will help you create a comprehensive style guide. This may include existing documents, examples of previous communications, and any specific guidelines or rules you want to follow.
2. Identify the target audience for your plain language style guide. Determine who will be using this guide and tailor it to their needs. Consider factors such as age, education level, and cultural background to ensure your language is accessible and easy to understand for everyone.
3. Define the purpose and goals of your plain language style guide. What is the overarching objective you want to achieve with this resource? Is it to improve clarity and readability in your organization's communications, or to ensure legal compliance? Clearly articulate these goals to guide your content creation process.
4. Develop clear and concise guidelines for your plain language style guide. This includes rules for grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and formatting. Make sure to include examples and explanations for each guideline to provide clarity to your users.
5. Organize your plain language style guide in a logical and user-friendly manner. Divide it into sections or chapters, with each section focusing on a specific aspect of communication (e.g., writing style, document design, terminology usage). Use headings, subheadings, or bullet points to break up the content and make it easier to navigate.
6. Consider including templates or checklists that can be used as practical tools by those using the guide. These can help ensure consistency and adherence to the defined style.
7. Pilot test your plain language style guide with a small group of users. Get feedback from them and make necessary revisions or improvements based on their input. This will help ensure that the guide is user-friendly and meets their needs.

Who needs a plain language style guide:

1. Organizations that engage in written communication with a wide range of audiences benefit from a plain language style guide. This includes businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, nonprofits, and healthcare providers.
2. Professionals who write and create content on behalf of organizations, such as marketing and communications teams, content writers, editors, and graphic designers, can benefit from having a plain language style guide as a reference tool.
3. Individuals responsible for ensuring legal compliance and accurate information dissemination, such as regulatory affairs personnel, legal counsel, and compliance officers, may also find a plain language style guide useful in their roles.

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What is plain language style guide?

Plain language style guide is a set of guidelines and rules to promote clear and concise communication.

Who is required to file plain language style guide?

Organizations and businesses are required to file a plain language style guide.

How to fill out plain language style guide?

To fill out a plain language style guide, one must follow the specified guidelines and provide clear and understandable information.

What is the purpose of plain language style guide?

The purpose of a plain language style guide is to ensure that information is easily understood by the intended audience.

What information must be reported on plain language style guide?

The plain language style guide must include instructions on how to communicate effectively, use plain language principles, and examples of clear communication.