Plain language makes it easier for the public to read, understand, and use government communications.

Learn more

Law and requirements

Learn about the Plain Writing Act, policy memos, and executive orders that require agencies to use plain language.

Plain language guidelines

Official writing guidelines for understanding your audience, being clear and concise, and testing your content.

Training

Request in-person training for your federal agency, or use our videos and materials to create your own class.

Examples

See plain language in action in a variety of regulations, legal documents, handbooks, and publications.

Upcoming events

October 10, 2018

October Meeting

Are you starting or re-starting your agency’s PL program? Where do you start?

This interactive session will

spark ideas about what to do and in what order,
share lessons learned and what not do,
show where you can get help,
explain why you don’t have to start from scratch.

Submit ideas/thoughts/questions beforehand.

Register: Email me at katherine.spivey@gsa.gov. Let me know whether you’re going to show up in person at GSA, 1800 F St., NW, Washington, DC 20405 or call in, so I can give you the room number or the adobeconnect info.

About us

The Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) is a community of federal employees dedicated to the idea that citizens deserve clear communications from government. We believe that using plain language saves federal agencies time and money and provides better service to the American public.

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