• Uncategorised

    Plain language

    Plain language simply means writing in a way that is easy to understand. Not many readers have the time to decipher wordy paragraphs, acronyms and bureaucratic speak, so why write that way?

    Which would you rather read:

    Before: You can obtain more information about the way in which the Department of Organisational Services and Community Development will manage your personal information, including the Department’s updated privacy policy by going directly to our website or requesting a copy from the department.

    After: If you want to learn more about how we use your personal information, read our privacy policy or contact us.

    They both mean the same thing, but the second example is going to immediately connect with readers and get them to take the call to action.

    The principles of plain language are:

    • Consider your reader
    • Know your message
    • Organise your information
    • Write effectively
    • Present clearly

    I can help you achieve the plain language principles in your writing.

    Read some more before and after plain language treatment examples.

  • Uncategorised

    What is an accredited editor?

    Accredited editors need to pass an exam to prove their competence.

    When you hire an accredited editor, you can rest assured you’re getting the real deal. Accredited editors need at least three years’ full-time experience and have sat and passed an exam with a minimum score of 80 per cent.

    The exam, held by the Institute of Professional Editors, is three hours’ long and covers grammar, spelling, copyediting and industry standards and practices.

    Accredited editors need to renew their accreditation every five years by submitting proof of their continued working experience and professional development.

    I am proud to be one of only 364 accredited editors in Australia. I achieved accreditation in 2016, proving my competence against the Australian standards for editing practice.