Plain language for the web is meant to get the point of something across in under the 15-second attention span that humans have. “Even people who are highly engaged and invested in digesting your content still need clear and simple text to help them navigate through websites and understand what you’re asking of them (Briscoe, W8 - Writing Website Copy & Plain Language Writing, 3).” If you constantly put in extra words that make the readers have to guess what you are trying to say, bounce rates will begin increasing dramatically leading to wasted time and money drawing them away from the CTA.  

Writing in plain language is crucial for the web and in my opinion very important for many reasons. 

Improves Readability and Understanding

When browsing online content, most people tend to quickly scroll through, so it is very important to keep the text concise and clear to the point where information is provided to users. If language is straightforward, people can easily get the main idea of the article even if they are not familiar with the topic or simply skimming. Complex words and long confusing sentences will increase the probability of readers getting lost and feeling that the information is overwhelming. The overall mental strain can be avoided with simple and familiar language which facilitates a relaxed and effective writing process allowing information and ideas to be easily understood by all readers. This will allow readers to avoid facing any difficulties in understanding the information provided.

Enhances User Experience

Internet users aim to access the information they need in the shortest possible time. Clear language is the reason why users quickly go through distinct sections before they find the relevant one, cutting off the time that they are spending trying to tell the right information from the wrong. A feel-good attitude in easy language not too much to understand makes the site look friendly and interested in enhancing communication with the company, product or support that is provided.