Simple steps to sure-fire materials

At the University of New England Health Literacy Center in Biddeford, ME, a checklist for creating easy-to-read materials was assembled to help health care professionals improve communication skills. Following are some of the tips offered on the list:

• Appearance/appeal.

Appearance is important. Written material should look easy to read and also be appealing and attractive. All the design elements, including text layout and pictures, work together to attract attention.

A good layout should include the following:

— ample white space, generous margins, short line length;

— balance between white space, words, and illustrations;

— highly visible section titles;

— key points emphasized with such techniques as boxes, bold letters, different typeface, and increased font size;

— upper- and lowercase letters in 12-14 point serif typeface;

— Illustrations that reinforce key points located close to the appropriate text that are suitable for the target audience and have captions when needed.

• Organization.

When good organization skills are used, the structure and sequence of the text makes it easy for readers to grasp the message quickly. Well-organized materials should include:

— key messages or actions a person should take located up front;

— three to five major points that are "need to know" information;

— information that is sequenced and written in a logical way;

— sections that are short, visually distinct, and appropriately labeled.

• Writing Style.

The author should use strong, clear, concrete nouns and verbs that create visual images the reader will remember. Well-written materials have the following attributes:

— conversational style writing with friendly tone and use of pronouns;

— technical jargon eliminated from text un-less necessary and when used an explanation is provided;

— concrete examples are used to improve understanding, and common words and analogies explain difficult concepts;

— words and sentences are short and simple but not choppy, and important information is clear.

(Editor’s note: For more information, contact: AHEC Health Literacy Center, University of New England, 11 Hills Beach Road, Biddeford, ME 04005.)