The Clarity Editor

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Plain language vs. Easy English

Plain language vs. Easy English

Plain language's aim is to ensure that people can access (understand and use) the information they need to lead better ...
How to use jargon effectively, responsibly, and inclusively

How to use jargon effectively, responsibly, and inclusively

Most of us have heard that jargon is terrible. Is it really so terrible? And is there any way to ...
decorative image: list of file names

TIP: Add the date to your file name (even if you don’t like numbers)

A little trick in naming your files and folders can help you save precious time and mind space ...
Should we mention race in alt text?

Should we mention race in alt text?

Alt text is a substitute for images. It should describe the most relevant info in the image. But when is ...
Quick tip: Rephrase negatives into positives

Quick tip: Rephrase negatives into positives

Here's an easy tip to help you write more clearly: if you can, rephrase negatives into positives. This is especially ...
The Clarity Editor annual report 2023

The Clarity Editor annual report 2023

A roundup of a solid year with over 500 hours of editing. I'm thankful for what I can contribute to ...
How to write clearly but diplomatically: Tips for UN and international aid professionals

How to write clearly but diplomatically: Tips for UN and international aid professionals

You can write diplomatically and still use plain language principles. Here are some practical ways. I've recapped all the arguments ...
Podcast cover for A Quick Dip into culture, communications, and change, by Athru Communications. Episode 5: Plain language with Ema Naito. Photo of smiling women in front of a dark background with an explosion of colorful powder.

PODCAST: A Quick Dip into plain language

In a brief 15 minutes, Sarah Black and I dip into plain language and its role in supporting accessible communication ...
Infographic: 4 powers of clear writing in international development. 1. Communicate effectively: When we are easily understood, it boosts our credibility and readers are more likely to believe in us. 2. Promote human rights: Using clear, plain language helps people access information that they can use to participate in society—a basic human right. 3. Correct power imbalances: Using clear language takes knowledge out of the hands of a privileged, powerful few and makes it accessible to everyone. 4. Foster transparency: We show the people we serve, our donors, partners, and the public that we hold ourselves accountable to them. This helps build public.

The 4 powers of clear writing in international development

UN writing isn't very clear. But clear writing can promote human rights, level power imbalances, and boost transparency and accountability ...

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