Plain Language Design

Write and evaluate content so that people with cognitive disabilities, low literacy, non-native language skills, or high stress can understand it on the first read.

Plain language is not dumbed-down language. It is clear language. It respects the reader's time and cognitive resources.

The Tests

5-Second Test

Can someone read this sentence and understand it in 5 seconds? If not, rewrite.

Jargon Test

Would someone outside your industry understand every word? If not, replace the word or define it inline.