The governing principles

• Relevant: readers get what they need
• Findable: readers can easily find what they need
• Understandable: readers can easily understand what they find
• Usable: readers can easily use the information

How to ensure clear language

Understand your audience

• Identify readers’ literacy, language skills, cultural backgrounds and subject-matter knowledge.
• Consider readers’ purposes, contexts, emotional states, and the technologies they use.

Content selection and structure

• Choose content that meets readers’ needs and is relevant to them.
• Structure content logically and group related information together.
• Use headings and visual elements (like bulleted lists) to make content easy to navigate.

Use plain language

• Use familiar, precise words and concrete examples to convey your message.
• Write clear, concise sentences and paragraphs, addressing readers directly.
• Include images or multimedia only if they support the text.
• Avoid jargon and vague, complex language.

Use correct tone and cohesiveness

• Maintain a respectful, inclusive tone, using language appropriate for your audience.
• Ensure all elements of the document (words, sentences, paragraphs, images) work together cohesively.

Evaluate and update content

• Continually evaluate your content during its development.
• Involve readers in feedback and make adjustments based on their reactions. 
• Periodically review and update the content to ensure it remains relevant and usable.