English for Students

Use Clear Layout

Use clear layout to present your plain words in an easily accessible way. Plain English needs to be complemented by effective layout otherwise only half the job is done. Study plenty of different documents to get a feel for good layout. Notice how page size, the type of font, and font size affect legibility. What makes things stand out? Are items within the document consistently presented in headings, lists, etc. Consider which documents are easy on the eye, and why? Which organize the material well, and how do they do this?

• Keep Sentences Short.
• Use words your readers are likely to understand.
• Use only as many words as you really need.
• Prefer the active voice.
• Use the clearest, liveliest verb to express your thoughts.
• Use Vertical Lists to make complex materil understandable.
• Keep Electronic Text Communication simple.
• Put your points positively when you can.
• Reduce cross-references to the minimum.
• Try to avoid sexist usage.
• Avoidable English Errors are so many.
• Avoid fusty first sentences and formula finishes.
• Put accurate punctuation at the heart of your writing.
• Avoid being enslaved by seven writing myths.
• Plan Before You Write.
• Organize your material in a simple way.
• Consider different ways of setting out your information.
• Devote special effort to producing lucid instructions.
• Use clear layout to present your plain words.