Contributed blog by Natasha Shahani, Content Specialist at Government Social Media®

“No one has ever complained that a text was too easy to understand.” - Hoa Loranger 

In government social media, we are responsible for sharing a wide variety of messages with diverse audiences—and it’s our job to make sure our content is easy to understand by all. 

One way we can accomplish this is to write in plain language. 

Fun fact: There is a law requiring federal agencies to follow plain language guidelines. Check your state laws and agency’s legal team to see if there is a similar requirement in place for your agency. 

PlainLanguage.gov defines plain language, also referred to as plain writing, as “communication your audience can understand the first time they read or hear it.” 

It seems easy enough, but sometimes we’re preoccupied with sounding “official” and forget our main goal is to be understood. 

3 plain language tips for better government social media

The next time you’re drafting content, keep these tips in mind:

1. Keep it short.

Just because character limits have increased over time doesn’t mean all of our posts have to be lengthy. Try to keep sentences to 20 words or less and utilize breaks between them. 

Instead of:
In light of recent events, we are adding additional security measures in the downtown area to ensure the safety of residents and visitors safe in the area. Remember: see something, say something. Our public safety department can be reached at 123.456.7890. 

Try this:

We have added more security measures in the downtown area in response to recent events.

If you see something, say something. 

Call our team: 123.456.7890

2. Lead with your main point.

Get to the most important or interesting information before the platform requires the user to click “more.”

Instead of:
Due to unforeseen circumstances as a result of the storm, we are experiencing power outages across the city. At this time we are not able to provide details when power will be restored. Visit WEBSITE LINK for live updates. 

Try this:
We are experiencing power outages across the city. Visit WEBSITE LINK for live updates.

3. Use active voice and familiar words. 

Clearly identify the subject of the sentence and limit the jargon and acronyms. 

Instead of:
A new ordinance was approved by the City Council adopting the AG’s guidance on STRs.  

Try this:
City Council approved a new ordinance that adopts the Attorney General’s guidance on short-term rentals. 

Keep learning: More plain language resources

Looking for more tips on how to use plain language? These resources can help you bring plain language to more of your agency’s communications:

PlainLanguage.gov: https://www.plainlanguage.gov/resources/ 

Center for Plain Language: https://centerforplainlanguage.org/ 

Readable.com: https://readable.com/  

Meet the Author

Natasha Shahani
Content Specialist - Government Social Media LLC

With eight years of government social media experience, Natasha joined Team GSM in 2025. 

Natasha graduated from Chapman University with a bachelor's degree in public relations & advertising and a minor in English. She has worked in PR and social media since 2011 and is looking forward to supporting the socialgov community. 

Natasha is a proud member of Alpha Gamma Delta and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation. 

When she is not working or volunteering, she spends time with her daughter, adventures around LA and watches Hallmark movies.