Skip to main content

Plain English: Writing with Clarity

Learn how to write clear, concise and reader-focused content using plain English principles and proven writing techniques.

Learn how to write clear, concise and reader-focused content using plain English principles and proven writing techniques.


IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Do you want to write in a way that gets your message across quickly and effectively?

Would your work benefit from stronger written communication that is easy to understand and engaging to read?

Writing in plain English is an essential skill for NSW public sector professionals. It makes your work more accessible, persuasive and trustworthy. Poorly written material can slow decision-making, increase risk and erode trust.

This practical, hands-on workshop will help you develop the skills to write clear, concise documents using plain English principles.

This course is suitable if you:

  • are new to government writing or want a strong refresher
  • write emails, briefs, reports, policies or guidance materials
  • want to reduce rewriting, follow-up questions and confusion
  • write for non-technical, executive or public audiences


WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

By the end of this course, you will be able to communicate complex ideas in clear, plain English. You will apply a practical writing process to plan, draft and edit documents more efficiently, using examples based on real workplace scenarios.

You will leave this course able to:

  • translate complex ideas into clear, plain English
  • match writing style and tone to audience and purpose
  • structure documents so key messages are immediately clear
  • write concisely using strong verbs and active voice
  • edit and proofread with confidence
  • apply a repeatable writing process to save time
  • use AI tools appropriately to support drafting, editing and proofreading while maintaining your own judgement

NSW Public Sector Commission Capability Framework

Writing with Clarity is for people at the Foundational to Adept levels and you will develop the following capabilities:

  • Relationships: Communicate effectively
  • Relationships: Influence and negotiate
  • Badge will be provided on completion of the course

The course is mapped to IPAA's working in the NSW government topic area.

Please note: All NSW Public Servants are entitled to complimentary Bronze Membership with IPAA NSW and are eligible for member rates. Find My Membership

 

Be at your best, for NSW.
Register now to secure your spot.

Terms and Conditions


When
5/11/2026 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Where
Teams
Registration
Sign in or create an account to register
Last day to register is 28/10/2026

Log in

Please sign in – your username is typically your email address.
If you have difficulties logging in, please contact [email protected]

Not a member?

Register as a member 

NSW Government email addresses only 

 

If you don't work for the NSW Government, you can still register as a guest.

Register as a guest

Non Government email addresses
Note: Non member fees may apply

Sign in to register