Plain language criteria for documents
The Plain Language Awards judges review documents against the following elements of the Write Plain Language Standard (also available under a Creative Commons licence from https://write.co.nz/resources/free-tools/).
‘Big Picture’ elements
- The purpose of the document is clear at the start
- The content supports the purpose of the document
- The structure of the document is clear and logical to the reader
- The headings signal the key content
Language elements
- The paragraphs are mostly short and focused on one topic
- The sentences are mostly short and straightforward
- The words are precise and familiar
- The tone supports the purpose of the document
Presentation elements
- The layout and presentation help the reader absorb the message quickly and easily
- The document is error-free
Plain language criteria for websites
The Plain Language Awards judges review websites against the specific plain language criteria mentioned below.
‘Big Picture’ elements
- The webpage has an informative title and clear purpose
- The content supports the purpose of the website
- The structure of the website is clear and logical to the reader
- Headings are informative and clearly signal the key content
Usability
- The website is easy to follow, with clearly labelled pages and topics
- Instructions and procedures are clear
- Link-text is self-explanatory and is not embedded in sentences
Language elements
- The paragraphs are mostly short and focused on one topic
- The sentences are mostly short and straightforward
- The words are precise and familiar
- The tone supports the purpose of the website
Presentation elements
- The layout and presentation help the reader absorb the message quickly and easily
- The F-rule for website readers is used well
- The content of the webpages is visually appealing, with body text in an easy-to read font
- The website is error-free
Judges for the 2022 Plain Language Awards
How the judging process works
What types of user-testing do judges look for?
Entry terms and conditions