b. What makes plain English writing different? (4 Marks)
What makes plain English writing different is the fact that its direct, clear and simple. This sets it apart from wordy and complex writing.
In class we discussed and learnt the SADE principle. This principle emphasizes how plain English writing “Saves time and money, everyone Appreciates clarity, people won’t Dread reading your writing, and you Empower your readers.” (Briscoe, W8 – A – Plain Language Writing (W25).pdf, Slide 14). These factors are what make plan English writing different. Plain English writing removes complex structures and ensures that clear communication stands out. This ensures that the writing can be approachable, look organized and absorbed helping the reader in a positive way by making them feel confident about what they are reading. Research shows that “readers are approximately 40% more likely to understand text that’s written in plain English and 34% more likely to say that your copy is well-written or organized.” (Briscoe, W8 Writing Website Copy & Plain Language Writing (W25).pdf, Slide 6). Plain English writing not only helps the reader, but it lets them be confident. That’s what makes it different. It absolutely helps improve the readers understanding, meaning they are more likely to engage with the content effectively. This can help build trust between the reader and the user. This reduces the risk of miscommunication, saving time and resources because plain English writing focuses on clarity, making the communication process less successful.
Plain language uses everyday words that are familiar to the user. Plain language factors in many key characteristics and we learnt in class this is necessary to understand the intended audience. It differentiates itself by using the 3 P’s, “Personal, Plain and Possible” (Briscoe, Lecture, February 26, 2025). The personal approach makes the content feel relevant and familiar to the user, adding a layer of trust and connection with the content. The plain aspect ensures that the writing gets to the point and delivers the core message. Lastly, the possible principle ensures that readers can act independently, ensuring realistic outcomes. This is different from technical writing that may prioritize the expertise of writing over accessibility, meaning that not everyone can understand it. Plain language ensures the message is understood, can be acted upon by the user and that it’s important to them.
It’s different because it’s easy to read and works to understand the audience’s needs, meaning that what we are writing is for them and not ourselves. Plain English writing is for clear communication that can cater to anyone depending on the intended audience.