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Plain language writing for the Deputy Minister's Bulletin

Last updated on July 15, 2026

The Deputy Minister's Bulletin is designed to provide clear, concise and accessible information to busy readers. Use clear and direct language so readers can quickly understand the key message and why it matters.

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Why plain language helps

Plain language makes information clear and easy to use. It removes barriers, supports better decisions and respects people’s time. When we write in plain language, we help more people find what they need, understand it and take action. It also helps us:

  • Meet accessibility and legal requirements
  • Reduce confusion and misunderstandings
  • Support informed decision-making
  • Make content easier to scan and understand
  • Deliver clearer, more effective messages
  • Better support the people who use our information

Meeting plain language and web style standards is a part of our publishing process. Some articles may need revisions before they can be published so please plan for additional review time when preparing content. 

How to write in plain language

Plain language is clear, concise and focused on your audience's needs. To make your content easier to read and understand:

  • Start with key messages
  • Use familiar, everyday language
  • Keep sentences and paragraphs short
  • Avoid jargon and explain technical terms
  • Organize content with clear headings and lists
  • Write in a direct, active voice
  • Focus on what your audience needs to know or do

Before submitting your article, use the plain language checklist and the writing policy content for the web resource to review your content. 

Get help with plain language writing

Improve your writing skills with training that supports clear, accessible and culturally respectful communication. These courses are open to anyone who creates written content for the public.

Writing for the Web course

An introductory course to plain language, web accessibility and content design. This course offers tips on writing and designing information so that it’s easy to find, understand and use. This course is designed for anyone who communicates in writing with other people.

Plain Language Training course

This course is designed to teach people how to write using plain language principles.

Writing for Indigenous Content webinar

This 1 hour recorded webinar helps the public service create content that respects the cultural integrity of Indigenous Peoples. This webinar was created by Indigenous public servants with Citizen Services.

Words matter: Inclusive Language workshop

This virtual workshop is open to anyone who wants to improve their understanding of inclusive language and learn how the power of words can make our workplace more respectful and inclusive.

Resources

Use these tools to strengthen your plain language skills and make your writing clearer and easier to read. They can help you simplify complex text, check readability and improve how you communicate with the public.

Writing for the Web Style Guide

The Writing for the Web Style Guide is the comprehensive resource for government writing standards and the guidelines the communications team uses to edit articles. Bulletin article writers are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with this content.

Copilot for plain language

Copilot can help you rewrite text in plain language, simplify long sentences, remove jargon and improve clarity. You can ask it to shorten content, draft summaries or check whether your writing is easy to understand.

Hemmingway App

The Hemingway App highlights long or complex sentences, passive voice and hard-to-read wording. It gives you a readability score and suggests ways to make your writing clearer and more direct.

Communications team

Have questions about the Deputy Minister's Bulletin or plain language? Contact the Communications team.