Last September, during a poster session at Kozminski University, I had the pleasure of showcasing my curated collection of Plain English resources under the umbrella of PLAin KOZMINSKI LAB. My goal was to bring together essential materials that promote clarity and accessibility in communication, particularly in legal and business contexts. In today’s AI-driven world, where information overload is a constant challenge, the ability to communicate clearly is more critical than ever. As educators, we have evolved into curators—selecting, refining, and sharing the best resources to help our students navigate complex disciplines with ease.
Why Plain English Matters
The movement for plain language is not just about simplifying text but about making information more inclusive and actionable. Legal and corporate jargon can be intimidating, and poorly structured writing often leads to misunderstandings, inefficiencies, and even legal disputes. The resources I have gathered aim to counteract this by providing practical strategies and examples of clear communication.
What’s in the Collection?
The poster presents a diverse array of materials, each with its own focus on clarity, accessibility, and effectiveness in writing. Here are some highlights:
1. Classic Texts and Guides
- George Orwell’s Manifesto on the English Language – A timeless reminder of the importance of clear, concise expression.
- A Plain English Handbook – An essential guide that provides actionable tips on improving readability in professional writing.
- How to Write Good Legal Stuff by Eugene Volokh & J. Alexander Tanford – A must-read for legal professionals and students who wish to master the art of drafting clear legal texts.
- Flimsy Claims for Legalese and False Criticisms of Plain Language by Joseph Kimble – A critical examination of why legal jargon persists and why it shouldn’t.
2. Free Online Resources
- PlainEnglish.co.uk – A fantastic platform offering free guides on writing letters, reports, CVs, and legal documents with clarity and precision.
- MIT Study: Even Lawyers Don’t Like Legalese – An eye-opening study highlighting the benefits of using plain language in legal documentation.
- Bookmark Summary of Plain English Rules ready for download and printing off.
3. Innovative Approaches to Legal and Business Communication
- Law by Design by Margaret Hagan – Explores the intersection of law, design, and technology to create more user-friendly legal documents.
- Plain Language + Design + Tech = Legal Design – A forward-thinking approach that integrates technology into simplifying legal communication.
4. Interactive Learning Tools
- Quizlet (1) and Quizlet (2) – A digital flashcard tool that helps students and professionals reinforce their understanding of plain English principles.
- Pustulka – A Polish-based learning platform designed to support language learning and clear writing skills.
Encouraging a Culture of Clarity
By curating and sharing these resources, my aim is to foster a culture where clarity is valued over complexity. The reception at the poster session was overwhelmingly positive, with students and faculty alike expressing appreciation for the structured, easy-to-navigate format of the collection.
As we continue to embrace digital transformation in education, it is essential to equip learners with the tools they need to communicate effectively—whether they are drafting legal contracts, business proposals, or academic papers. Plain English is not about dumbing down language; it is about making it smarter, more direct, and ultimately more impactful.
I invite everyone to explore these resources and integrate them into their own teaching, writing, and professional communication practices. Because when it comes to sharing knowledge, clarity is key—and sharing truly is caring.
Do you have favorite plain English resources that you use in your work or teaching? Let’s continue the conversation—drop a comment or connect with me to exchange ideas!