3. For question #2, explain how your new post successfully addresses the three main objectives of Plain English writing as discussed in class. Provide a detailed breakdown of each objective. (9 Marks)
a. Describe one specific technique you used to improve readability in your revised version and explain why it is effective. (4 Marks)
One specific technique I used to improve readability was my wording choice. By removing or changing unnecessary words that either tried to make me sound smarter or were generally just fluff. Clear wording allowed me to effectively write so my reader doesn’t feel they are wasting time or not understanding the core message. It respects the reader and gives them the answer they are looking for without doing too much work and by doing this the reader is less likely to stop reading and more likely to fulfill the desired action. It keeps the messaging clear, doesn’t make the reader feel dumb and guides them through the content.
b. What was the most challenging aspect of applying the F-Pattern and Plain English writing principles? How did you overcome it? (5 Marks)
One of the most challenging aspects of applying both the f-pattern and plain english was knowing what to remove and what to keep. This was hard because it required me to think critically about what my audience is looking for in my content and how I can move them to take action without removing any important information. It meant I had to constantly go back, revise what I wrote and determine if what I am saying aligns with my audience and keeps the core message clear and concise. It also meant recognizing where I put important information and how I convey necessary information in a quick and digestible way. To highlight important information I made sure to keep important content closer to the top, easily scannable and avoiding or removing content that buries the important information.
How did I address the three main plain english objectives
I made this piece of content concise by writing only the necessary information and decreased the word count. All important information is easily scannable. The core message (to feel younger you should train with us, sign up here) is clearly outlined and there is no fluff words or unnecessary information that wastes the reader’s time.
The messaging is clear as I removed or changed fluff words or uncommon vocabulary. It avoids being too smart for the audience which makes it easier to read and requires little thinking. By avoiding complicated reading I allow my reader to digest my content without getting annoyed or feel like they are wasting time.
The content is designed around the user taking the action of visiting our website to sign up for our services. This is accomplished by clearly showing what they gain from signing up with us in the intro and the bullet points. In the CTA I illustrate what they stand to lose if they don’t sign up ‘Don’t waste away your best days’. The content is wholly written to have the user take action by leveraging their fear of old age.
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