It’s not dumbing down—it’s opening up

Activity time: 2 min

Goal: Challenge the myth that simplifying language reduces quality, showing that clarity increases accessibility, respect, and inclusion while requiring skill and effort.

Let’s rethink what it really means to simplify language. It’s not about removing depth—it’s about removing obstacles.

It means removing barriers, not lowering standards.
Clear, simple communication is respectful, inclusive but often harder to apply.
It’s about making knowledge more accessible, more inclusive, and more human.
Clarity doesn’t mean a lack of depth—it means depth that’s understandable
People from all backgrounds deserve access to information, no matter their level of education, language, or experience. Using plain language or relatable examples isn’t talking down to people—it’s reaching out to them.

It’s actually harder to explain something simply than to bury it in complexity.
Clear communication takes thought, empathy, and creativity.
It often involves asking: Who am I speaking to? What do they already know? What might confuse them? How can I make this clearer without losing the message?
Writers, educators, scientists and leaders need to explain their content clearly. Albert Einstein said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”
True mastery of the content reveals itself in simplicity.

When we embrace the idea of opening up information, we make room for more voices, more participation, and more progress.
It’s not about lowering expectations—it’s about raising access. Everyone deserves the chance to understand and engage.
Clear communication builds bridges, not walls. It fosters trust, learning, and connection. It’s not just a technique—it’s a mindset.

Have you ever avoided asking a question because the explanation felt “too academic” or hard to follow? What would have helped you feel more included?

Choose a short paragraph of technical or formal writing you’ve used. Rewrite it using simpler language that keeps the key message.