Subject: Using Plain English

Plain English is the proper way of writing short memos and emails in the business field. Plain English insures that your message comes across properly and it helps with time control as well. It is faster to type in Plain English and is also more direct so that the reader can understand and follow the concept easier. When writing in Plain English you will also want to use clear and concise nouns in your sentences. This style of writing is specifically important in the business world, due to the need of getting ones thoughts and points across quickly and thoroughly. We cannot afford to write without using Plain English because it can cause miscommunication between associates and colleagues. It is also much more professional looking and more clean cut for the reader to read and understand. Below are a few examples to help you with your Plain English writing skills.
• Avoid Nominalizations such as completion, introduction and investigation.
• Use personal pronouns in order to help the reader comprehend and it also will allow you to speak directly to them.
• Omit Superfluous Words such as, in order to, and prior to. There is no need for superfluous words, just change it to “to” and before”. It gets the point across and cuts down on the reading for your audience.
• Be concise! There is no need to beat around the bush on things, just stat what you need your reader to understand, and use Plain English doing it!
• Stop and Think! Don’t just start typing, think about what you need to say and figure out how to say before you just start rambling.