Described are techniques which relate to the impact of communications on the reader. An awareness by authors and editors of the techniques available through readability research studies leads to significant savings in time and effort, as well as increased benefits in comprehension and learning of the reader. Examples of use in technical publications show how exchanges between author and reader can be more effective and productive. The techniques have wide application also to publications of all kinds, and provide a valuable resource to achieve optimum results in communication or information products. The discussion is based on the knowledge and experience gained by the writer through academic and practical applications in editing and preparing a wide variety of general and technical communications.

Communication, as a basic process for exchanges between individuals or groups, involves the development and use of various systems. Focusing on fundamental elements of one system—speech (language) and its formalized extension, writing, the author describes instant techniques or processes for overcoming obstacles to effective communications. In particular, emphasis will be given to the role of the communicator-educator involved in the development and training efforts to improve day-to-day exchanges among working groups. Such efforts have been retarded through complicated language structures and an overconfident reliance on elaborate devices and myriads of machines and equipment. In addition, the escalating changes in many fields have contributed to frustrations and complexities in achieving goals. To overcome the problems, recommendations stress the importance of a recall of basic principles of communication in the language-writing system and an understanding of the processes involved. Techniques described represent simple practical solutions available for instant adoption by the educator in meeting current needs.