5 Good Reasons To Keep Your Writing Simple

Written by: Joanna Young
July 1, 2008

The finest language is mostly made up of simple, unimposing words (George Eliot)

I am a major fan of plain, simple writing. Here are five good reasons why:

Simple words are universal: the simpler the words, the plainer the writing, the easier it is for other people to understand you. Simple writing helps us to communicate, to build bridges, to make connections across barriers of time, culture and language.

Simplicity saves time: we’re living in a time-poor world (the developed part of it anyway). Your readers are busy. You’re busy. Keeping it simple saves your reader time, and makes it easier and quicker for you to write.

You’re in good company: think about some of your favourite quotes, most inspirational speakers, books that you love… chances are they’ll bear the hallmarks of plain, simple powerful writing.

Simple writing is essential: simplicity helps you to focus on your point, to strip away the clutter so what really matters - the essence of your words, your thoughts, your feelings - shines through.

Simplicity breeds confidence: plain simple writing is a sign of confidence. You trust these plain simple words to convey your message and you don’t need to disguise it with the camouflage of jargon or use fancy phrases to buff it up.

It’s easier for your readers to follow and understand. If you’ve got a powerful positive story to tell, keep it simple and they’ll enjoy the benefits.

And last but not least, if you keep striving for simplicity in your writing you’ll love reading back what you’ve written. You’ll be astonished, over and again, by the power of the message and the punch of your words. You’ll be surprised, amazed and grateful for the plain simple truth of your writing, and the power of your own simple words.

PS I’ve chosen a picture of my own to illustrate this piece: the simplest of garden flowers. Plain, simple, revealing her glorious essence. Oh and yes, it’s a reminder from nature that there’s power and symmetry in five points…

Joanna Young - Coaching you to write with confidence | http://www.thecalmspace.com/about#joanna

Comments

One Response to “5 Good Reasons To Keep Your Writing Simple”

  1. Chris OwenNo Gravatar on July 1st, 2008 6:03 pm

    Someone once told me it should be nothing more grand than fourth-grade language. No matter WHO the reader!
    Thanks for the reminder. This is one that while I know it, sometimes as I write I can forget it!

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