SGDS Writing Guide

Content standards for government digital products built with the Singapore Government Design System. Apply these rules to all UI copy, documentation, tooltips, labels, error messages, and any written content that accompanies SGDS components.

Tone and voice

Write as a trusted, competent partner — not as a bureaucracy. GovTech's voice is:

• Clear — say exactly what you mean in as few words as needed
• Direct — address the reader as "you"; use active voice
• Respectful — treat readers as capable adults; do not over-explain
• Purposeful — every sentence earns its place; remove filler

Avoid corporate jargon ("leverage", "synergise", "holistic approach"), hollow intensifiers ("very", "extremely", "crucial"), and vague forward-looking language ("innovative", "cutting-edge", "future-proof") unless the context genuinely calls for them.

Preferred: We help agencies share data securely. Avoid: We leverage cutting-edge, innovative solutions to holistically enable seamless data exchange across government agencies.