Plain Language Basics: Online Class



U.S. government agencies are required to communicate in plain language. How do federal employees learn how to do that? The Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) offers free training to federal agencies; this three-hour online class through Digital.gov explains how to write in plain language.

 

We’ll cover the following:

  • Definition of plain language
  • Background
  • The law - Plain Writing Act of 2010 and executive orders
  • Federal Plain Language Guidelines
    • Write for your audience
    • Organize your information
    • Choose your words carefully
    • Be concise
    • Keep it conversational
    • Design for reading
    • Follow web standards
    • Test your assumptions

We’ll use plenty of before-and-after examples, and in-class participation.

Speaker and Presenter Information

Katherine Spivey serves as thePlain Language Launcher at the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). She is co-chair of the Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) and trains for DigitalGov. At GSA, she is the plain language expert for the Office of Strategic Communication. Previously, she managed web content, coordinated social media, and edited the Great Government through Technology blog. Before GSA, Katherine was web content manager at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the international law firm, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. With an M.A. from the University of Virginia and a B.A. from the University of Mary Washington, she has taught at community colleges and at the Amphibious Warfare School in Quantico, Virginia.

Relevant Government Agencies

GSA, Other Federal Agencies, State & Local Government


Event Type
Webcast


This event has no exhibitor/sponsor opportunities


When
Tue, Aug 11, 2020, 1:00pm - 4:00pm ET


Cost
Complimentary:    $ 0.00


Website
Click here to visit event website


Organizer
Digital.Gov


Contact Event Organizer



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