Writing for the web

Here are some fast writing tips that will make your web pages easier and faster to read:

• Write for "scanners".
  People don't read on the Web – they "scan". Let readers easily and quickly find and read the information they seek. Printed documents and directives of all types can benefit from web writing techniques. Even people with PhDs like easy reading.
• Simplify the language.
  Delete words that are not essential. Blast folksy or bureaucratic language. Be direct and clear. Aim for a 50% reduction in words.
• Reduce polysyllabic words to familiar one or two-syllable ones.
  For example, favor "use" over "utilize", "make" over "fabricate".
• Use strong, present tense, active voice action verbs.
  "Someone does something", not "something is done by someone."
• "Chunk" content.
• Use short simple sentences (25 words or less) of varied length.
• Put key information first. Answer the "who, what, where, when, why, and how." Good news journalists use this " inverted pyramid" style too.
• Use "white space".
• Use short paragraphs of just a few sentences, each with one idea.
• Add structure
  Use subheads and bullets to help readers scan the page.
• Use "Styles"
  Just make sure the styles follow the document structure. Heading 1 appears before you use a Heading 2, for example. Subheads would become Heading 3 styles in this structure.
• Limit use of images and apply alt text.
  Use only images essential to the document. Blast the clip art and cute stuff. Look professional. Remember that Section 508 and WCAG require images to include alternative text. (In MS Word, select "Format", "Picture", and then the "Web" tab).
• Never use red or green text.
  Why? Red or green text violates Section 508 accessibility for the handicapped.
• Never underline words.
  Why? Underlines in a web page or doc imply a hyperlink.