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
- Start with what most players need to know.
- THEN add the complex stuff in labeled sections.
- 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]