8. Business Writing

8.2. Using Plain English

The main advantages of plain English are:

·       It is faster to write.

·       It is faster to read.

·       You get your message across more often, more easily and in a friendlier way.

Plain English is a message, written with the reader in mind and with the right tone of voice, that is clear and concise.

Some features of Plain English are:

·       Short sentences.

·       Active verbs.

·       Use of passives where appropriate only.

·       Use of 'you' and 'we'.

·       Use of words that are appropriate for the reader.

·       Avoiding nominalisations.

o   Nominalisations are formed from verbs.

o   A nominalisation is a type of abstract noun. In other words, it is the name of something that isn't a physical object, such as a process, technique or emotion. For example, if the verb is ‘Complete’, the nominalisation is ‘Completion’.

·       Using lists where appropriate.[1]