“Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very’; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.”

– Mark Twain

In a world where information is constantly at our fingertips, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively has never been more important. Whether you’re drafting an email, writing a report, or creating a training programme for your business, the clarity of your message can make or break its impact.

At Understood, we believe that clear communication is the cornerstone of success, and we’re here to help you get your message across effectively. Here are four top tips to help you make yourself understood in your written communication.

1. Keep It Simple

When it comes to writing, simplicity is key. Using straightforward words instead of more complex alternatives can make a huge difference in how your message is received. For instance, choose “use” rather than “utilise,” or “improve” rather than “enhance”. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: If I was chatting to a mate outside of work, would they understand what you’re saying? If the answer is no, it’s time to simplify.

Complex language doesn’t make you sound smarter—it just makes it harder for others to understand you. By stripping away unnecessary complexity, you make your content more accessible and engaging, ensuring that your audience stays with you from start to finish.

2. Get to the Point

Time is precious, and nobody wants to wade through long-winded sentences to find the crux of your message. That’s why it’s crucial to get to the point quickly. Aim to write short sentences (no more than 20 words) and cut out any unnecessary words. This approach not only keeps your writing concise but also makes it more powerful.

When your main point is clear and upfront, your audience can immediately understand the value of what you’re communicating. This not only improves the readability of your content but also respects the time and attention of your readers.

3. Be Active

The active voice is your best friend when it comes to clear and direct communication. If you don’t remember learning about this grammar point in school, don’t worry! Here’s a basic explanation…

In the active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action, making your writing more dynamic and easier to follow. For example, instead of writing “The project was completed by the team,” go for “The team completed the project.”

Active voice sentences are generally shorter and more straightforward than their passive counterparts. They make your writing more engaging and your message more compelling, which is exactly what you want to achieve.

4. Warm It Up

Nobody enjoys reading overly formal or stiff writing. To connect with your audience on a more personal level, it’s essential to keep your tone conversational and friendly. This doesn’t mean you need to be overly casual, but rather that your writing should feel approachable.

Think of your writing as a conversation with a friend. Address your reader directly, and avoid overly complex language that can make your writing feel distant. By warming up your tone, you create a connection with your reader, making your message more relatable and easier to digest.

Ready to make yourself understood?

Clear communication is about more than just getting your message across—it’s about making sure your audience understands and engages with what you’re saying. By keeping it simple, getting to the point, using the active voice, and warming up your tone, you’ll be well on your way to writing that resonates.

At Understood, we’re passionate about helping you communicate more effectively. All of our training content is crafted with accessibility and clarity in mind, ensuring that it’s not only engaging but also more likely to drive meaningful behaviour change.

Remember, the clearer your message, the more likely it is to be understood.

For more tips and insights on effective communication, visit our blog at understooduk.com/blog.