Plain Language: Improving Communications from the Federal Government to the Public


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Tips & Tools> Guidance> Guidelines Table of Contents> Sentences

Sentences


Choose your words carefully. Start with your main idea – don't start with an exception. Word order does matter, so place your words carefully. Keep it short; it's not a crime to use lots of periods.


PL Guidelines

Think about your audience

Organize

Write your document

    Words
    Sentences
    Write short sentences
    Keep subject, verb, and object close together
    Avoid double negatives and exceptions to exceptions
    Main idea before exceptions and conditions
    Place words carefully
    Paragraphs
    Other aids to clarity

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