Audience analysis doesn’t just mean thinking about who your readers are. You also have to determine how to shape your documents so that your audience will read what you have to say. Plain language is one way you can ensure that your message will accomplish your goals, because it makes a text quick and easy to understand.

Plain language encompasses more than the words and phrases that you use. The design features that you incorporate also contribute to a document that is quick and easy to understand. Today’s Lynda.com video explains how to “Incorporate easy-to-read design features” (4m23s). The video is free with your VT login. Follow these instructions to login.:

Once you watch the video, think about how you can apply the design strategies to your own writing. You can also watch any of the other videos in the course for tips you can apply to your writing.

For your reply, share a link, photo, or screenshot of a piece of writing that either does a fantastic job of using easy-to-read design features OR one that could be improved. Be sure to explain your choice, saying why it works and/or what you can do to improve it.