From the course: Writing in Plain English

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Address your readers directly when writing in plain English

Address your readers directly when writing in plain English

From the course: Writing in Plain English

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Address your readers directly when writing in plain English

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- [Narrator] One simple way you can adhere to plain writing principles and make your writing better for your readers is to engage your reader directly by using the pronouns you, your and I. Essentially, write as if you're having a one-on-one conversation with your reader. For example, consider this, "A zip code must be provided in the shipping address." That sounds formal and distant. Instead, bring your reader into the conversation. "Be sure to include your zip code in your shipping address." Now it's personal and clear. Here's another example. Instead of writing, "Customers should store olive oil in a cool, dark place" connect with the reader more directly by writing, "Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place." The simple change can make a big difference. For example, an FCC plain language study that found readers appreciate headings also found that they liked pronouns in the headings. You can use headings that answer questions readers may have, such as, "How do I store my olive…

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