Redish, J.
and Laskowski, S.
(2009),
Guidelines for Writing Clear Instructions and Messages for Voters and Poll Workers, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=902844
(Accessed December 11, 2024)
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Guidelines for Writing Clear Instructions and Messages for Voters and Poll Workers
Published
Author(s)
Janice (Ginny) Redish,
Abstract
Voters are exercising an important right as American citizens. If they cannot understand how to use their voting materials, they may not be successful in voting for the candidates and positions of their choice. Clear instructions are a necessary part of the voting process whether voters use paper ballots, mechanical devices (lever or punch card), electronic devices, or any other medium. This document includes 20 guidelines for clear ballot instructions for both paper and electronic ballots. It also gives seven guidelines for writing clear system messages on electronic voting machines. Each guideline includes a statement of what to do, reasons for doing it, and an exampleCitation
NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 7596
Report Number
7596
NIST Pub Series
Pub Type
NIST Pubs
Download Paper
Keywords
Ballot Usability, Ballot Instructions, Best Practice in Language, Plain Language
Citation
Issues
If you have any questions about this publication or are having problems accessing it, please contact reflib@nist.gov.
Created June 4, 2009, Updated October 12, 2021