The benefits of plain language are huge; the costs of complex writing are equally huge. This case study looks at how we can improve readability just by replacing a few common complex words with simpler alternatives. The results are impressive.
Literacy rates around the world are abysmal. By around the world, I include in America. Over half of Americans cannot easily read to a grade six reading level. And if they can't read your message easily, they won't read it at all. At the most basic level, shorter words and shorter sentences improve readability.