Requirements for plain writing

What is the Plain Writing Act?

The Plain Writing Act was signed into law in October 2010.

In April 2011, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued M-11-15, Final Guidance on Implementing the Plain Writing Act of 2010 (PDF, 269 KB, 6 pages). This memo provides guidance for how to implement the Plain Writing Act and promote the goals of Open Government Initiative.

In part, this memo provides policy guidance to help agencies fully implement the Plain Writing Act. The law and policy guidance collectively establish a framework and the requirements for plain writing.

Why is it important?

Plain language ensures the public can easily access and understand your content. This leads to better engagement and compliance. It also makes it easier for members of the public to understand and apply for important benefits and services they are eligible for.

Clear and simple communication has many benefits, including: 

• Improved clarity: Plain language removes ambiguity and jargon. It makes it easier for readers to grasp the intended message quickly and accurately.
• Increased trust: When information is presented in a straightforward manner, it builds credibility and makes the organization appear more trustworthy.
• Time and cost savings: By reducing confusion and the need for clarification, plain language saves time for both writers and readers, ultimately leading to cost reductions.

What’s in the law?

The Plain Writing Act defines plain writing as “writing that is clear, concise, well-organized, and follows other best practices appropriate to the subject or field and intended audience.” 

The law requires all executive branch agencies to use plain writing. Specifically, it requires that each: 

• Train employees in plain writing.
• Establish a process to oversee ongoing compliance.
• Write all new or substantially revised documents in plain writing.
• Create a plain writing section on the agency website and publish an implementation plan in this section.
• Publish an annual report that describes its continuing compliance.
• Choose one or more “Senior Officials for Plain Writing” to oversee implementation.

What does it mean to implement the Plain Writing Act?

OMB’s policy guidance in M-11-15 outlines how executive branch agencies can get started, meet deadlines, and encourage public participation.

It also says agencies should follow the federal plain language guidelines. If your agency has its own guidelines, you may base them on the federal guidelines and modify them to make them more relevant to your agency.