The Power of Plain Language: Myths, Benefits, and Best Practices
Posted by anne.grey
Presenters: Melanie DeLeon (Communication Access and Digital Inclusion Manager) and Anette Hassold (Program Specialist, ADA/504 Compliance).
Summary
In this presentation, PCC accessibility professionals explain how plain language can make college communication clearer, more inclusive, and more useful for everyone. Plain language is not about removing important ideas or making content less professional. Instead, it helps readers find what they need, understand it, and know what to do next. The session explores common barriers created by complex wording, long sentences, jargon, passive voice, and unnecessary detail. Participants learn practical ways to improve course materials, websites, forms, emails, and other communications by putting the most important information first, using familiar words, writing in active voice, and organizing content around the needs of the actual reader. The presenters also show how clear communication can reduce errors, questions, and misunderstandings while supporting accessibility, equity, student success, and trust. Examples and rewriting activities demonstrate how small changes in wording and structure can make information easier to navigate and act on.
Slides: The Power of Plain Language: Myths, Benefits, and Best Practices
Presentation Outcomes
- Define plain language and explain how it supports accessibility, equity, inclusion, and clear communication.
- Identify common myths about plain language, including the idea that clear writing “dumbs down” content or makes communication less professional.
- Organize content with the most important information first and write for the actual audience rather than an ideal reader.
- Apply clear writing practices, including active voice, subject-verb-object structure, shorter sentences, familiar words, and explanations of jargon and abbreviations.
- Review and test content by reading it aloud and asking colleagues or intended users to identify confusing sections, unclear directions, or missing next steps.
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