What Science Says About How We Read 

When:  Wednesday, October 19, 7:30 to 8:30 pm PDT

Where: Online through Zoom

Cost:    Editors Canada members, free; non-members, $10; student non-members, $5

Words, words, and fewer words!

Cheryl Stephens is a leading international expert in plain language communications and will share how neuroscience helps us choose the best word. Short and simple words are not automatically the best choice; the best word is familiar to the reader and carries the most information. A reader judges material on a balance of ease of reading and information gain. Writers aim for this balance, and editors can help select the best word for the job. Editors will appreciate knowing which guidelines are supported by evidence.

Cheryl has taught editing and plain language courses at SFU. She also coaches individuals to become better communicators by using her research-based advice.