Plain Language

Plain language makes it easier for everyone to understand and use health information. Although plain language is a familiar idea, many organizations don’t use it as often as they should. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 now requires federal agencies to train staff and use plain language when they communicate with the public.

CDC is committed to plain language communication with the public. We created these posters to remind staff about plain language techniques. One poster is a checklist of the main techniques. The other 3 are reminder messages that focus on eliminating jargon, highlighting main messages and eliminating unnecessary details in materials.

You can use these materials or create your own to promote plain language in your organization. You can find many plain language resources on the federal plain language web site. We invite you to share your plain language stories on the health literacy blog.