| Plain Language is sometimes called Plain English or Accessible Text. It is text that uses words and images that most people can understand and a presentation that makes the words easy and inviting to read.
Plain Language also means visually impaired consumers who use “screen readers” can read your documents.
The average native English-speaking American reads at the 5th grade level. About 50% of Americans are unable to read at the 8th grade level and 20% are functionally illiterate — they read below the 4th grade level.
Accessible documents benefit more proficient readers, too — they are more appealing and easier to remember. Plain Language allows the reader to find important information at a glance.
If your organization receives federal funding, your web text must comply with Section 508 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act and be considered ‘Bobby approved.’ This means clear, simple language, guiding subheads, and graphics that reinforce meaning.
For more information, or a free sample, please contact us.
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