Follow the below guidelines when writing for the web.

  • Read your writing aloud to yourself – do you sound natural?
  • When you think you've finished, cut your word count by at least a third
  • One paragraph per idea (it's ok to use a single sentence paragraph)
  • Avoid jargon
  • Explain abbreviations and acronyms
  • Use verbs – actions make for more dynamic language
  • Be concrete, avoid generalities
  • Use the Active Voice
  • No metaphors
  • Address audience directly
  • Refer to your organization or department as "we"
  • Use words that your audience uses
  • Use everyday language - Content should be written at an 8th grade reading level
    • average user reads at an 8th grade reading level or below
    • reading level is dependent on audience - graduate level would be different than undergrad