Expand plain language documentation with best practices

content/growing/plain-language.md

@@ -1,18 +1,54 @@
----
-title: Plain Language Federal Resources
-description: Resources and training on Plain Language
-permalink: /growing/plain-language/
-layout: layouts/page
-section: growing
-tags: ospo
-eleventyNavigation:
-  parent: ospo-growing
-  key: ospo-growing-plainlanguage
-  order: 9
-  title: Plain Language
-sidenav: true
-sticky_sidenav: true
----
-
-- [Plainlanguage.gov](https://www.plainlanguage.gov/guidelines/)
-- [Federal Plain Language Guidance](https://digital.gov/resources/federal-plain-language-guidelines/)
+## What is Plain Language?
+
+Plain language is communication that people can understand the first time they read or hear it. It helps readers quickly find information, understand what it means, and take appropriate action.
+
+## Why Plain Language Matters
+Using plain language helps organizations:
+
+* Improve accessibility
+* Reduce misunderstandings
+* Increase trust and transparency
+* Make information easier to find and use
+* Improve user experience across digital services
+
+For government organizations, plain language supports effective communication with the public and helps ensure information is accessible to everyone.
+## Plain Language Best Practices
+
+### Know Your Audience
+Understand who will use the information and what they need to accomplish. Write with their goals and level of expertise in mind.
+
+### Use Common Words
+Avoid jargon, unnecessary acronyms, and technical terminology whenever possible. If specialized terms are required, explain them clearly.
+
+### Keep Sentences and Paragraphs Short
+Shorter sentences and paragraphs are easier to read and understand, especially on digital platforms.
+
+### Use Active Voice
+Active voice is generally clearer and more direct.
+
+Instead of:
+"The application must be submitted by the user."
+
+Use:
+"The user must submit the application."
+
+### Organize Information Clearly
+Use headings, bullet lists, descriptive titles, and logical structure to help readers navigate content quickly.
+
+### Make Content Easy to Scan
+Most users scan webpages before reading them in detail. Highlight important information using:
+* Headings
+* Bulleted lists
+* Short paragraphs
+* Meaningful links
+
+### Focus on Action
+Clearly explain what readers need to do and what will happen next.
+
+## Federal Resources
+* PlainLanguage.gov
+* Federal Plain Language Guidelines
+* Digital.gov Plain Language Web Writing Tips
+
+## Additional Reading
+Digital.gov provides practical guidance for creating web content that is concise, accessible, and user-centered. Their recommendations emphasize audience-focused writing, scannable content, and clear calls to action.