National Adult Literacy Database

This guide is intended for anybody responsible for creating workplace materials used by professional drivers and other employees working and learning in the trucking industry.

The authors begin by explaining what plain language and workplace materials are. From there, they go on to discuss identifying the target audience; determining what information the audience needs; and organizing that information for the target audience.

They also offer tips on choosing strong verbs; using headings, lists and questions; and applying visual design strategies.

They point out that this document is intended as a set of general guidelines, not a list of set rules. With practice, and by using these principles and techniques, the writer’s confidence will grow.