Introductory classes

PLAIN is dedicated to helping federal agencies train their staff to communicate clearly and develop their own plain language programs. We’ll train your managers as well.

We offer free, half-day training classes for federal agencies. All of our classes are based on the Federal Plain Language Guidelines and involve interactive writing exercises.

In light of OPM guidance and increasing concerns about COVID-19 (coronavirus), we are suspending accepting training requests.

Class descriptions

Principles of plain language

• Learn how to identify and write for your audience
• Use plain language techniques to create clear and effective writing
• Learn how using plain language can save your agency time and resources

Manager briefing

• 10–30 minute overview of the Plain Writing Act of 2010
• Assessment of benefits of using plain language

Request training

NOTE: In light of OPM guidance and increasing concerns about COVID-19 (coronavirus), we are suspending accepting training requests.

Please note

All of our trainers are volunteers, and we only offer training for federal agencies. Requesting agencies must pay all trainer expenses, including parking within the DC metro area (if needed) and lodging, travel, and per diem outside the metro area. We can’t always fulfill requests for classes outside the area because only one volunteer trainer is authorized by their home agency to travel.

If you are not a federal employee requesting training for your agency, you can find other training options under Public Resources on our main training page.