If your goal is writing reader-friendly procedures and policies that get read and used consider how you write your sentences. In addition to using simple, direct terms avoid unnecessarily complex syntax.
Subject verb object is the easiest sentence pattern in English to read and understand.
It follows the pattern: who is kicking whom.
Examples:
- The attorney (subject) signs (verb) the contract (object)
- The operators (subject) answer (verb) calls (object).
- You (subject) choose (verb) the solution (object).
To make your sentences clear and easy to read, try to use this pattern for 75 to 80% of the sentences in your policies and procedures.
Watch our upcoming posts for more tips and techniques that you can use for writing policies and procedures that deliver more value.