Readability Guidelines

READABILITY: USE PLAIN LANGUAGE 

Plain language is a tool we can use to keep the reader's attention and confidence. It helps them understand the page and helps them make decisions easier.  This keeps us in compliance with federal accessibility (ADA) guidelines, as well. 

• Here are simple low-hanging-fruit guidelines which include: 

  • Use 2 syllables or less, 3+ for commonly known words. Avoid 3+ syllable words unless that word is familiar to your readers.​

    • • • • Don't say "Accomplish". Use "do​"

          • Don't say "a number of " use "some​"

          • Don't write "participate" use "take part​"

          • Don't say "attempt" use "try"

          • Don't say "compensate" use "pay"

• • • One thought per sentence. Use short, concise sentences. It’s ok to use a long sentence when needed.

    • In general, keep sentences short. Recommend < ~22 syllables.​

    • Go easy on commas. Break up the long sentence. Avoid semicolons.​

    • Use common words familiar to the audience. Use a thesaurus.​

    • Avoid repetition of the same word in a content cluster.

    • Be direct. Use authoritative voice, active voice.​

    • Use “we” “us” or “our” instead of “The Home Depot” ​

    • Avoid jargon.​

    • Use contractions you’re, it’s.

The Home  Depot readability guidelines are adapted from:

• the US federal government regulations on Plain Language 

• agreements between internal stakeholders –  Earned Media and the Content Program.

• best practice and industry standards.

"A communication is in plain language if its wording, structure, and design are so clear that the intended readers can readily find what they need, understand it, and use it." - Center for Plain Language

Here's an overview of Readability: Clarity in Language as shared at the EUX Accessibility Guild meeting in March 2023.