1. Material is clearly introduced and states the purpose of the text to the reader.
2. Major points of text are summarized at the end.
3. Materials are brief, concise, and in the language or dialect of the target audience.
4. Materials are written at the educational and reading level of the target audience. Avoids jargon and technical phrases.
5. Materials use language and terms with which the target audience is comfortable.
6. Use active verbs and short, simple sentences, with one concept per sentence in short paragraphs.
7. Materials avoid or define difficult words and concepts. Examples are used to clarify.
8. Use terms consistently (e.g., "HIV" and "AIDS virus" are not used interchangeably).
9. Materials are straightforward and clear. (Do not use abbreviations, acronyms, euphemisms, symbolism, statistics, or anything else that could cause confusion.)
10. Text uses line drawings if illustrations are included.
11. Illustration of anatomy shows position of organs within the whole body (gives relative size and location reference).
12. Text uses lists, bullets, or illustrations instead of long discussions. Visuals (overheads, slides) are used to emphasize key points.
13. Text is underlined, boldfaced, or "boxed" for reinforcement.

14. The text dispels myths, uses acceptable channels, refers to value systems for reasons to change behavior or adopt a new perspective.
15. Materials provide a call for action.
16. The text illustrates manual skills from audience perspective.
17. The text provides reasons for changing behavior.
18. Materials provide current and accurate medical information.
19. Materials do not contain sexual preference or racial, gender, or ethnic bias.
20. Text offers alternative behaviors to the one(s) that put a person at risk.
21. Realistic and relevant examples are given.
22. The format of the text is not visually distracting:
    1. Small type (less than 10 point) is not used.
    2. Sentences are neither too short nor too long.
    3. Text does not contain larger blocks of print.
    4. Right margins are justified.
    5. Only photographs that are reproducible are included.*
    6. Only professional-quality drawings are included.
    7. Technical diagrams are avoided.
23. Graphics are immediately identifiable, relevant, and simple.  They reinforce the text.

*Note: A written release should be obtained from all persons pictured. The release should clearly state permission to use the photograph and the conditions for use.