Writing for the Web
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This document provides tips for writing content for the web. The key points are to cut unnecessary text, clearly state the purpose upfront, and make the content scannable by using headings and lists. Write in an active voice using plain language. Links should have descriptive text indicating the destination. Avoid dated language and write timelessly.
Writing for the Web
- 1. Writing for the Web May 2013
- 2. Key Points • Less is more: cut half of the text, then cut again • Make it immediately clear why this is useful • Don’t wander from the page’s purpose • Make it scannable: – Use good headings – Use lists as much as possible • Be direct: use readers’ words and active voice • Link using text that’s clear about the destination • Make text timeless
- 3. Passive Voice Obscures • Applications must be submitted • A decision will be issued • Upon completion of the process
- 4. Use Direct, Short Phrases • No – At the present time – In the current location – Your examples?
- 5. What’s Easier to Read?
- 6. Link Tips • Link using text that’s clear about the destination • Make the file type clear if the link isn’t a Web page • Use unique links • No: – Phones & plans – Smartphones & apps • Start sentences with the link, not the sentence. Add explanatory surrounding text only if necessary.
- 7. Link Text • Examples of poor link text – Read more – Click here • Examples of good link text – Fact Sheet: Background information on the FDA/EPA Consumer Advisory on Mercury in Fish and Shellfish – Technical Memorandum: Origin of 1 meal / week Freshwater Fish Consumption Rate (PDF) – Climate Change in the Pacific Southwest (Instead of Read more…)
- 8. Link Tips cont. • Make links scannable with unique beginnings • No: – How to install a router – How to install your server software – How to install your browser software • Yes: – How to install: • Router • Server software • Browser software
- 9. Scannable Links - NOT
- 10. Better
- 11. Improving the content • Pesticides are one component (better word: part) of a comprehensive strategy for controlling bed bugs. Currently, there are over 300 products registered by EPA for use against bed bugs – the vast majority (better word: many) of which can be used by consumers. Several classes of chemicals are utilized in these products -- each class share a similar mode of action, or way in which the chemical affects the biological functions of a bed bug. • To help you find a product, EPA has developed a Bed Bug Product Search tool to help you find a product that meets your needs. • If you find that a particular chemical treatment seems to be ineffective (better phrase: didn’t work) , please read When Treatments Don’t Work before reapplying or trying a different product. You may want to consult (better word: ask) a pest management professional to inspect your residence (better word: home) and, if needed, apply approved pesticides to treat any infestation. For assistance (better word: help) with choosing a pesticide registered for consumer use, you may also check with the Cooperative Extension Service office in your area.
- 12. Content not related to audience • The economic impact doesn’t matter to the person (or caregiver) who wants to avoid an episode of COPD
- 13. Content not related to audience • Lots of people have it. The stats don’t add value for the audience. • Two sets of symptoms makes it unclear.
- 14. Make Text Timeless • Avoid dating words – Today – This year – Last month • Use years, specific dates, even on the day you publish, with past tense – On May 2, 2013 … – In 2012, we …
- 15. Resources • EPA requirements: http://www2.epa.gov/webguide/writing-web- requirements • Howto.gov: http://www.howto.gov/web- content/manage/write-for-the-web
Editor's Notes
- #8: http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/docs.cfm?program_id=0&view=allnpdes&sort=name&amount=all