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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.

We talk simply. We use normal words, and are sentences are usually quite straightforward. But put someone in front of a keyboard, and there's no telling how complicated they can write. So much business communications comes out as gobbledygook, whether it's an internal memo, a job description, an instruction manual or a letter to customers.…