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Writing Best Practices

Accessibility

Plain Language Guidelines

  • Use everyday words when you can- try to write at an eighth grade level.

  • Define game terms early in their source page.

  • Break complicated rules into steps.

  • Give examples for anything confusing.

 

Progressive Disclosure

  1. Start with what most players need to know.

  2. THEN

    Addadd the complex stuff in labeled sections.

  3. Put edge cases in collapsible sections or notes.

 

Mobile-Friendly Formatting

  • Keep paragraphs short (5-6 sentences max).

  • Use meaningful subheadings every few paragraphs.

Scannability

Effective Subheadings

  • Use descriptive headers, not clever ones.

  • Maintain consistent hierarchy (don't skip levels).

  • Keep headers concise (5 words or less ideally).

 

When to Use Lists vs a Block of Text

Use Lists For:

  • Requirements or prerequisites

  • Step-by-step instructions

  • Multiple examples

  • Quick reference stuff


Use Regular Paragraphs For:

  • Stories and descriptions

  • Lore and world-building

  • Explaining concepts

  • Character dialogue


 

Call-Out Boxes

These can be found in the text editor in the style selection menu. Use these to highlight:

 

Examples & Clarifications

When to Include Examples

  • Complex rule interactions

  • Mathematical calculations

  • Multi-step processes

  • Commonly misunderstood rules

Format:

  • Example: [Situation]

  • [Step-by-step resolution]

  • Result: [Outcome]

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