Writing Example: Instructions to Submit Your Identity Verification Documents (DE 1326C)

Before

After

Key Plain Language Strategies

The after version uses blue text and numbers to highlight the following strategies.

1. Turns the document’s main heading into the purpose statement that shares the call to action. Also uses the largest heading font to show information hierarchy.
2. Opens the letter by directly stating what you need your audience to do this with information.
3. Creates clear content sections by sharing subheadings that speak directly to audience and inform about the steps they can take. All subheadings use parallel structure. 
4. Shares a visual by turning the two options and steps they must take into a table.
5. Uses numbered bullets to convey the “two options.” 
6. Gives the audience the specific contact information. Uses bullet points to make those options more scannable. 
7. Uses active voice to clearly show who is responsible for the step of denying benefits.
8. Opens each bulleted item in the list with a bolded intro clause followed by a colon for quick reading. Defines SSN again for the reader.