Oxford Guide to Plain English

The "Oxford Guide to Plain English" by Martin Cutts is a comprehensive resource aimed at improving written English for writers of all abilities. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Clear Communication: The book emphasizes the importance of writing clearly, concisely, and precisely to communicate effectively with the intended audience.
2. Practical Guidelines: The guide is structured around 30 practical guidelines, each chapter focusing on a specific aspect of writing, such as vocabulary, punctuation, grammar, layout, proofreading, and organization.
3. Avoiding Jargon and Clichés: It provides advice on how to avoid using jargon, legalese, and public sector language, promoting the use of plain English in various contexts.
4. Inclusive Language: The book includes updated guidance on using inclusive language, particularly in the chapter on sexist language, to ensure that writing is respectful and inclusive.
5. History of Plain English: A new appendix in the fifth edition provides a historical context of plain English, tracing its origins from Chaucer to the present day.

Plot Summary

The book begins with an introduction explaining the need for plain English and the common practice of deliberate obfuscation. It highlights historical examples, such as William Tyndale's translation of the Bible into plain English, which was criticized for its simplicity but ultimately made the Bible accessible to ordinary people.

The guide covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Short Sentences and Clear Paragraphs: Advice on structuring sentences and paragraphs for clarity.
• Plain Words: Guidance on choosing simple, effective words.
• Vigorous Verbs and Untying Noun Strings: Tips on using active verbs and avoiding complex noun phrases.
• Good Punctuation: Practical advice on using punctuation correctly.
• Planning: Strategies for organizing your writing.
• Low-Literacy Plain English: Techniques for writing in a way that is accessible to readers with limited literacy.
• Proofreading: Steps to ensure your writing is error-free.
• Good Email Practice: Best practices for writing effective emails.

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews for its practical approach and comprehensive coverage of writing skills. Here are some key points from the reviews:

• Improved Index and Appendices: The fifth edition has been praised for its improved index, which now extends to more than seventeen pages, making it easier to find specific information. The addition of a new appendix on the history of plain English has also been well-received.
• Accessible Content: Reviewers have noted that the book is presented in a straightforward and engaging manner, making it accessible to writers of all abilities.
• Updated Guidance: The inclusion of new chapters on customer-service writing and common blunders in the workplace has been seen as a significant improvement, along with the expanded chapter on sexism and inclusive language.

Overall, "The Oxford Guide to Plain English" by Martin Cutts is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their written communication skills, offering practical advice and historical context to support clear and effective writing.