In general, do not use more than 25 words in a sentence. Sentences with more than 25 words tend to be unnecessarily complex. A shorter sentence can also be complex if the sentence contains too many prepositions or clauses. Try the following ways to make sentences less complex:

• Delete unnecessary or redundant words.
• Use active voice.
• Use simple present tense.
• Use a list.
• Rewrite sentences that contain multiple:

  • Instructions or events
  • Prepositions
  • Clauses

The following sections provide examples of each suggestion.