Plain language standard

This is a proof of concept. See
`GitBook`⁠
for source of truth - 9/15/2023

All state departments should:

Provide information to the public at an

8th grade reading level or lower⁠

⁠

Use smaller, more common words

Avoid jargon and technical terms as much as possible

Keep sentences short and simple

This standard applies to print and digital information.

Key considerations

It can be a challenge to balance plain language and accuracy. Achieve the lowest reading level you can.

Write for your audience. Using technical terms might be appropriate if you're writing for a specialized audience. Examples include attorneys, scientists, or engineers.

Cite laws, code, or regulations as written. Summarize this information whenever possible to help people understand it.

Definitions

Code: The text of laws, as found at

California Legislative Information⁠

Department: A department, commission, office, or other administrative agency of state government

Jargon: Words used by specialists that are not used or understood by the average person

⁠

Footnotes

Most content designers use grade 8 as their maximum reading level. Examples include the

Nielsen Norman Group⁠

and the

Government of Canada⁠

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This is a proof of concept. See GitBook for source of truth - 9/15/2023

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Plain language standard

This is a proof of concept. See GitBook⁠ for source of truth - 9/15/2023

Key considerations

Definitions

Footnotes

⁠Share feedback⁠⁠

This is a proof of concept. See
`GitBook`⁠
for source of truth - 9/15/2023

⁠
Share feedback
⁠
⁠