Reading within the Lines: Plain Language in TW5211

Introduction to Plain English

In Week 4 of TW5211, I was introduced to the concept of Plain English. Using common vocabulary helps non‑native speakers who may not have acquired the idiomatic meanings of phrasal verbs. One example from the reading showed the danger of unclear language: flight warnings used the unfamiliar phrase “pull up” instead of the clearer term “climb,” contributing to a plane crashing into a mountainside after takeoff.

Language is not usually life or death in the moment, but it can have long‑lasting and far‑reaching impacts.

My Journey with English

When I thought back to my early years learning English, I remembered how determined I was to master as many new words as possible and force them into my writing: to prove I knew English. But as I’ve gained more education and experience, my writing has become simpler. The opposite of what I expected happened. I’ve learned to appreciate Plain English. Humble language is powerful; it is the language of instructions that run the world and its complex machinery, or at least, it should be, following the principles of technical writing.

Plain Language and Accessibility

I’ve also realised that Plain Language supports not only native and non‑native speakers but neurodivergent people as well. The world suddenly made more sense the day I received my diagnosis years ago. That day, I learned that the world was not designed for people like me. That’s why I want to make it part of my work to make communication more accessible for neurodiverse people as well.

When we use Plain English, communication becomes clear, transparent, and joyful. It removes ambiguity, hidden meanings, and the anxiety of wondering what might lie between the lines.

"Instead of using jargony words like "utilize" or "leverage," opt for simpler words like "use" and "help." Plain language won’t dumb down your content—it makes it more clear. If you wouldn’t say it in an everyday conversation, it’s probably not plain language." Source: https://www.estiponagroup.com/blog/5-easy-ways-design-more-neurodivergent-friendly

Looking Forward

Being properly introduced to Plain English has helped me reflect on how many unnecessarily confusing texts I have read - or even written. Now I know how to approach writing differently. Flowery language can look beautiful, but Plain Language is beautiful because it fulfils its purpose: it can be read and understood by anyone.