Prompt Proofing Blog Post: Write in Plain English

    VANCOUVER, BC, October 28, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Still revisiting some former topics, we return to the idea of improving your writing style by writing in plain English.

Are you tired of reading jargonistic prose that obscures meaning? Using legalistic jargon - or any other professional jargon, for that matter - may make you seem educated but it doesn't actually help you communicate efficiently. The ultimate purpose of writing is to communicate and good grammar is concerned with clarity, not obfuscation!

I am indebted to The Canadian Style - A guide to writing and editing for the following example of how to communicate clearly - and how not to!

Example 1:

It is incumbent upon applicants who do not possess a status of landed immigrant or permanent resident prior to the submission of their application to communicate with the appropriate Immigration Centre in order to take the necessary steps to obtain such a status.

Clear as mud? Now try...Example 2:

You must be a landed immigrant or permanent resident to apply. To find out how to become a landed immigrant or permanent resident, contact an Immigration Centre (the addresses are given on page 6).

Not only is the second version easier to understand, it is well punctuated and actually offers helpful advice.

Writing in plain English also means avoiding redundancy. Some examples of phrases that could (should?) be eliminated from your writing and replaced with a single word:

at this point in time - now

give consideration to - consider

in the wake of - following

conduct an investigation into - investigate

in the very near future - soon

due to the fact that - because

in the absence of - without

plan in advance - plan/prepare

in a general sense - generally

in regard of - regarding

in recognition of - recognizing

The list could go on and on, no doubt readers will have their own examples of this type of verbiage...if so, share (on Twitter or Facebook).

And remember - keep it simple!

About Prompt Proofing

Prompt Proofing is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and was officially launched in 2010 by a team of editing and writing professionals who have over 40 years of experience in the education, news media, public relations and recruitment fields. Prompt Proofing prides itself on affordable services delivered with fast turnaround times, without sacrificing quality or accuracy.

Offering content writing, editing and proofreading services, Prompt Proofing takes care of your individual or business content needs. Visit our website for more information at http://www.PromptProofing.com.

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