The U.S. National Science Foundation is dedicated to using plain language in its communication with the public. This page outlines what this means and how to contact the agency if you have feedback or encounter NSF communications that are hard to understand.
What is plain language?
The "Plain Writing Act of 2010" requires that federal agencies use plain language in their public communications. At its essence, writing plainly means keeping readers' knowledge and needs at the forefront. A plainly written item makes it easy for readers to:
- Find what they need.
- Understand what they find.
- Use what they find to meet their needs.
Federal plain language guidelines
The federal plain language guidelines outline requirements for federal agencies. NSF must use plain language in any document that:
- Is necessary for obtaining any federal government benefit or service or filing taxes.
- Provides information about any federal government benefit or service.
- Explains to the public how to comply with a requirement that the federal government administers or enforces.
NSF's commitment
NSF is striving to ensure its webpages and documents are written in plain language. Our guiding principles for this work are outlined in the agency's " ."
Contact us
If you encounter NSF webpages or documents that are difficult to understand, please let us know by clicking the blue "Feedback" button found on the right edge of this page. If you are unable to view the feedback button, you can use this link instead. You may also contact us at copyedit@nsf.gov.