What is plain language?

Plain language is simple, straightforward language. It reflects how most people communicate in their day-to-day lives. It is both easy to understand and clear in its message.

This month, we want to focus on how plain language can be used in the ways we connect with others and in the ways we write. It is about better communication- plain language is a best practice!

To understand what plain language is, we want to contrast it with jargon. Jargon is any set of words that make sense ONLY to people working in a particular field.

Imagine that you are getting your car repaired. The mechanic says to you “your bushes on the wishbone are going”. Would you know what they meant? Would not knowing make you feel anxious? Now imagine that they told you “There are little rubber parts called bushes that are attached to suspension parts in your vehicle which are wearing out. They are not expensive to replace.” Do you understand what the mechanic means now? How might you feel different hearing this instead?

Now imagine someone who doesn’t work in the field of disability hearing “Your ONA is next week, so be ready to answer questions about your ADL/IADLs”. Or if the same person looks at their Individual Support Plan (ISP) and reads “Transportation- substantial/maximal assistance, persons providing support accompany person on bus/van”. How might someone feel if they do not understand what this means?

Why use plain language?

Plain language is more accessible

We all want to understand what we read and what others are communicating. By using plain language in how we write and communicate, it removes barriers to access and understanding.

Importantly, people have the right to understand the contents of their Individual Support Plan (ISP). How might jargon and “systems language” create barriers for people and families?

Plain language is often clearer and more accurate.

Consider the phrases below. Which give you more information?

Plain language is more person-centered.

Plain language is more equitable.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Remember, plain language may be simple, but breaking the habit of jargon can be very difficult. If you’re very used to using a set of words or phrases, it can be hard to try something new.

Consider the following chart. Which language do you use? Are there any terms or words you hope to replace in your work?

Instead of…	Try…
Toileted/Bathed	Supported person to use the restroom, take a shower
Non-compliant, refused supports Example: John refused his community integration activity	Person did not want to XYZ, Person decided not to XYZ Example: John did not want to go to the movies today.)
Confined to a wheelchair, wheelchair bound, non-ambulatory	Uses a wheelchair
Had a behavior	Was upset, raised his voice (plain language to describe what happened)
Peer	Friend, Coworker
People with disabilities, “them”, individuals Example: I support a non-verbal individual.	Person (depends on context) Example: I support someone who uses a communication device.

Plain language is worth the effort. Be patient with yourself and others, but never stop trying to use more accessible, more accurate, more person-centered, and more equitable language- in other words, plain language!