plain-language-design

name	plain-language-design
description	Use when simplifying wording, instructions, labels, or system messages so users with low literacy, dyslexia, cognitive disabilities, or limited language proficiency can understand them.

Plain Language Design

Use this skill when reviewing content for clarity and comprehension. Focus on making text easier to read, understand, and act on without requiring specialist knowledge or high reading effort.

Assess Language Complexity

• Identify jargon, abstract phrasing, long sentences, and nested instructions
• Review whether labels and buttons match user expectations
• Check if error messages explain what happened and how to fix it
• Consider literacy, dyslexia, translation, and stress-related comprehension challenges

Improve Clarity

• Use familiar words, direct verbs, and concrete examples
• Break instructions into short, scannable steps
• Prefer specific action labels over vague terms like “submit” or “continue”
• Keep meaning consistent across pages and interactions

Output

• Flag language that may confuse or slow users down
• Rewrite critical text in simpler, clearer terms
• Prioritize labels, instructions, and feedback that affect task success