Avoid clutter: less is more   

Reading time: 1 min

Goal: Help writers create clean, focused documents by removing unnecessary elements so the main message is clear and easy to follow.

Too much information on a page can overwhelm your reader. When a document is crowded with text, images, colours, or decorations, focusing on it becomes difficult. 

That’s why the rule “less is more” is so important in easy-to-read communication. 

Keep your layout clean and simple

  • Use short sentences and short paragraphs 
  • Focus only on the most important ideas 
  • Don’t repeat the same point unless it’s helpful 
  • Limit the number of fonts and colours you use 

Only include images, charts, or side notes if they truly help the reader understand the message. If something doesn’t support the main point, consider removing it. 

Think of your document like a tidy room: when everything is in its place and there’s space to move, it’s easier to find what you need. 

By avoiding clutter, you make your text more welcoming, easier to read, and more respectful of your reader’s time and attention.