Plain Language, Please: How to Write for Results

Writing in plain language is not something they teach in you school. But it is an art and a science, and you can learn how to do it and apply it—how to write for results. This book provides a step-by-step, example-filled guide to the critical aspects of writing in plain English—plain language—the type of writing people understand and to which they respond favorably. Not many people refuse to read a newspaper because it is “too easy,” but lots of people avoid technical publications and barbecue grill instructions because they are “too hard” or unintelligible. Good writers are made, not born. The examples and information in this book will guide you along the process of becoming one of those “good” writers…and you may even find yourself looking forward to your next writing project.

Table of Contents:
Table of Contents Preface Introduction Chapter 1: A Brief History of the (American) English Language Chapter 2: How to Write in Plain English Chapter 3: Identify and Write to the “Right” Audience Chapter 4: Keep it Simple and Short Chapter 5: Planning and Organizing Your Documents Chapter 6: Applying the “Cs” and Rs” of Effective Writing Chapter 7: Using Correct Grammar and Punctuation Chapter 8: Using Reader-Friendly Voice, Tone, and Person Chapter 9: Applying Effective Self-Editing and –Proofreading Techniques Chapter 10: Netiquette and Writing for the Likely Viewing Medium Conclusion: The Wrap-Up

About the Author :
Arrowood has been designing and presenting “plain language” writing training programs worldwide for over 13 years. She has written and edited documents for almost any imaginable area from engineering to marketing, lessons learned to risk assessment reports, and military to young adult.

Review :
Janet Arrowood has written a clear, no-nonsense guide that sets out a compelling case for plain language, with a set of simple tools for easily de-cluttering prose on any subject. In an era when the ear of even the most technical among us has been trained to respond to the sound bite, it’s essential to be able to write in plain language to effectively and clearly convey any message—the more complex the subject, the more imperative the need for plain language. Plain Language, Please is an excellent reference companion for writing well. It is as practical and relevant as possible, and offers examples of tools, tips, and strategies you can use immediately. Each chapter is stand-alone, so you can read the book in its entirety from beginning to end or you can reference individual chapters as you need them. Regardless of how you approach this authoritative source, you will walk away feeling equipped to be a more effective writer and all-around better communicator. Janet brings a practicality and ease to relearning those lessons I checked out on in 8th Grade English. Her guidance, in the classroom as well as on paper, has supported countless individuals. Plain Language, Please is a must read for anyone who has over-used hyperbole or who still does not understand where the semicolon goes! Whether you work in the private or public sector, the ability to write effectively in plain English is one of the most valuable skills you can have. Unfortunately, English is one of the most complicated languages in the world. Plain Language, Please takes a difficult subject and breaks it down into a manageable, easy-to-understand process through which anyone can learn the art of effective writing in plain English.