The average American reads at the fifth grade reading level, so keep your writing simple and clear - it is hard to write simply

 Tips:

1. Prefer short words over long
2. Prefer plain words over fancy
3. Short sentences are crisp sentences
4. Omit needless words
5. Especially in newsletters pay attention to your lead sentence and your headline (This is where reports and newsletters part company)

Newsletter Headlines:

• A good one takes time to write even though it looks simple and short.
• A good headline may be the most important thing you will write. It may be the only thing a person reads.
• A good headline will contain a verb.
• Headlines attract a readers attention; it tells them quickly whether they should read on.
• A good headline helps you decide at the outset the purpose of your article; is it to recruit, remind, activate, or engage?

Newsletter Lead Sentences

• They lead you into the story; sometimes they are called grabbers, because they grab your attention.
• They often summarize the content of the article.
• They assume that the reader will read no further.