ML21167A323
| ML21167A323 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Issue date: | 06/16/2021 |
| From: | Jason Cai NRC/NMSS/DREFS/MRPB |
| To: | |
| Cai, June | |
| Shared Package | |
| ML21167A317 | List: |
| References | |
| Download: ML21167A323 (1) | |
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Top Tips for Writing Well USE ACTIVE VOICE 1 Look for passive verbs (is, are, was, were).
Replace with an action verb and add a subject, if appropriate.
Passive: A new generator was installed.
Active: The licensee installed a new generator.
subject action verb MINIMIZE ACRONYMS Use nicknames instead: 2 the committee instead of ACMUI North Anna instead of NAPS No back-to-back acronyms.
USE PARALLEL VERB FORMS IN LISTS 3 Parallel: Write clearly, consistently, and precisely.
Not Parallel: Write clearly, be consistent, and with precision.
USE CONSISTENT TERMS If you call it a report, stick to report. Do not 4 switch to paper, study, or analysis.
USE SIMPLE, DIRECT, PLAIN LANGUAGE 5 Instead of in the event of, say if.
Instead of utilize, say use.
Check out this list of complex words and their plain language substitutes.
USE SHORT SENTENCES A rule of thumb is three lines or more may 6 be too long.
ONE IDEA=ONE SENTENCE 7 Split up long sentences packed with too many ideas. Also do the opposite. Look for repetitive sentences, combine, and delete.
USE TOPIC SENTENCES The topic sentence should state the key message 8 of the paragraph. Bottom line up front.
USE TRANSITIONAL WORDS TO TELL A STORY 9 Firstly, secondly, also, however, instead, nevertheless, furthermore, for example, specifically, finally, in conclusion.
For more guidance and examples, use the NRC Editorial Style Guide and the Federal Plain Language Guidelines.
For more information, contact:
Alexa Sieracki alexa.sieracki@nrc.gov Caroline Hsu caroline.hsu@nrc.gov