Top Tips: NYC web content style guide
Use plain language
- Use simple, everyday words
- Use you to speak directly to the user
- Use active voice
- Use short sections and short sentences
- Use descriptive headings
- Use lists and tables to simplify content
Write at a 7th grade reading level
- Always make your content as simple as you can without losing meaning.
- Use the Flesch–Kincaid grade level formula to measure reading level.
Write headings in sentence case
Top tips: NYC web content style guide
Top Tips: NYC Web Content Style Guide
Write descriptive links and buttons
Learn about rent stabilization
Learn more
Avoid abbreviations
Respond as soon as possible to lock in your appointment.
RSVP ASAP to lock in your appt.
Use contractions when they sound natural
You’ll owe late fees if you don’t file on time.
You will owe late fees if you do not file on time.
Don’t capitalize
city as in city government
The city offers affordable child care programs.
The City offers affordable child care programs.
Write dates and times like this:
Saturday, September 21, 2024
9 a.m.
5:30 p.m.
Sat. Sept. 21st, 2024
9/21/24
9AM
Use the Oxford comma
Birdwatchers can see songbirds, shorebirds, birds of prey, and waterfowl.
Birdwatchers can see songbirds, shorebirds, birds of prey and waterfowl.
Last updated Monday, July 21, 2025