gov-uk-style

Solid

Use when writing public-facing content, government or civic communication, help pages, policy summaries, or content requiring maximum-scope readability according to GOV.UK standards.

AI & Automation 33 stars 1 forks Updated 1 weeks ago MIT

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Quality Score: 83/100

Stars 20%
51
Recency 20%
90
Frontmatter 20%
70
Documentation 15%
100
Issue Health 10%
80
License 10%
100
Description 5%
100

Skill Content

# GOV.UK Style Make complex information instantly clear, scannable, and accessible to every citizen. ## The core rule **Start with the user's need. Sentences under 25 words, paragraphs under 5 lines, active voice, zero jargon.** Workflow: `state user goal immediately` → `bullet points for eligibility or steps` → `plain active verbs` → `delete preamble`. ## Mechanics 1. **User need first.** Every page starts with what the user can do or find. 2. **Short sentences.** Maximum 25 words; vary length for rhythm. 3. **Active voice.** "You must apply online" not "Applications must be submitted". 4. **No jargon.** Replace bureaucratic terms with plain English (e.g. "pay" instead of "remuneration"). 5. **Bulleted lists for steps.** Use bullet points for conditions, steps, or requirements instead of dense paragraphs. 6. **Bold sparingly.** Use bold only for critical warnings or key criteria. 7. **No Latin or Latinisms.** Use "for example" instead of "e.g." and "that is" instead of "i.e.". 8. **Anchor links.** Clear, descriptive link text that explains where the link goes. ## Verify - First sentence directly addresses the user's primary intent - Sentences average under 20 words - Bullet points used for lists of 3 or more items - Zero Latin abbreviations (e.g., i.e., et al.) - Active voice used throughout ## Do not - Use introductory throat-clearing ("It is important to note that...") - Assume prior knowledge of government processes - Write paragraphs longer than 5 lines - Use p...

Details

Author
surendranb
Repository
surendranb/writing-skills
Created
4 weeks ago
Last Updated
1 weeks ago
Language
Python
License
MIT

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