Welcome

The Publications, Graphics, and Web Development Section has updated the Planning Department’s Way With Words style guide into a dynamic, collaborative tool for all staff.

The update ensures Planning Department documents and materials are consistent, accessible, and clear, emphasizing plain language in public-facing documents to facilitate public engagement with the Prince George’s County planning process.

Way With Words includes specific rules for grammar, usage, and construction, but we recognize the nuanced nature of quality writing. When in doubt about a rule's applicability, consider whether it enhances clarity and conciseness for your audience.

Note: Rules not found in Way With Words default to the Chicago Manual of Style. But Way With Words rules take precedence in case of contradictions.

If you are new to working with the Publications Section, learn about the process for collaborating with us on your project.

Do you have a question about a rule or suggestion for additions to Way With Words? We invite users to suggestions or ask questions so we can learn from your feedback!

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What's New?

If you are familiar with the previous style guide, the updated version may seem like a radical departure.

However, the update reflects the reality that software programs can catch many basic spelling and grammar mistakes. The new emphasis is on better serving the public by providing information that all County residents can easily find, understand, and use.

This section will point out substantive edits and additions to Way With Words as it evolves.

Plain Language

Public-facing Planning Department documents follow plain language based on the Plain Writing Act of 2010, which requires federal agencies to communicate clearly in public-facing documents.

The state of Maryland already has enacted plain language legislation related to health, insurance, safety, and social services public information that follows the federal guidelines.

The goal of using plain language guidelines is to enhance the clarity of Planning Department external documents, ensuring that the public can easily find, understand, and act on the information we provide.

Why Should the Planning Department Use Plain Language?

Using plain language is crucial for the Planning Department because it:

• demonstrates our commitment to the public,
• communicates more effectively,
• reduces resources spent on clarifying information, and
• improves compliance.

Plain Language Myths

• Plain language "dumbs down" written communication.
• Plain language is imprecise.
• Plain language only adds bullet points, white space, and subheadings.

Effective plain language is neither imprecise nor does it eliminate the technical information necessary to understand the subject.

Time and attention spans are short and better serving the public requires our written communication to adapt.

Source: plainlanguage.gov