Why Plain Language is Powerful: Lessons from a Writer

Every writer has been there. Growing up, we were drawn to big, fancy words and intricate sentences, eager to dazzle readers. We wanted them to 😲 at our brilliance, as if we’d memorised the thesaurus.

[Insert smug childhood faces here!] 😏

But as I grew as a writer, I learned that the most impactful writing is often the simplest.

✅ Clear, simple words

✅ Sentences that flow effortlessly

✅ Writing that feels like the author is speaking directly to you.

The magic of writing lies in communicating ideas in a way that feels approachable and digestible for any reader.

I recently received a compliment from a colleague who said they loved how easy it was to understand what I wrote. To me, this is one of the highest forms of praise as a writer.

It doesn't matter whether I’m working on business government communications, educational materials, or stories that transport readers to fantastical worlds, my aim is the same: to connect and communicate.

I’ve seen it across every industry I’ve worked in—business, the public sector, education, e-commerce, and publishing. The truth is, we all have complex ideas to share. But our job as writers is to take those ideas and make them feel simple, clear, and human.

🙅🏽‍♀️ After all, people won’t support a government project they don’t understand.

🙅🏽‍♀️ Readers won’t connect with a story they can’t follow.

🙅🏽‍♀️ Customers won’t trust a brand that hides its message in jargon.

So, here’s my challenge to you (and a reminder to myself).

When you write—email, blog post, or book chapter—ask yourself:

👉🏽 How can I make this as clear and engaging for the reader as possible?

Because, as the adage goes:“If you can’t explain it to a five-year-old, do you even understand it yourself?”

Plain language isn’t just a skill. It’s the best thing you can do for your readers.

As a fantasy author, this lesson holds true in storytelling too. The most intricate worlds are best revealed in simple, relatable ways. Even the most magical ideas need a touch of humanity and every day life to truly shine.