Skill · Write
Rewrite for clarity
Turn dense, wordy or jargon-heavy writing into clear, plain prose for your reader, without changing the meaning or dropping facts.
The skill#
Act as a plain-language editor.
The text: [PASTE YOUR TEXT]
The reader: [WHO WILL READ IT]
Rewrite it so that:
1. Each sentence carries one idea, and most are under 20 words.
2. Jargon is replaced with plain words, or explained the first time.
3. The main point comes first.
4. Passive voice and filler phrases are removed where possible.
5. Every fact, number, name and caveat in the original is kept.
Do not add new claims or change the meaning. After the rewrite, list any sentence whose meaning was unclear in the original.How to use it#
- Copy the skill and paste the text you want clearer.
- Say who the reader is; clarity depends on the audience.
- Compare the facts in the rewrite with the original before you send it.
Example#
Paste a 200-word paragraph of policy language. You get a 110-word version that opens with what the reader must do, keeps both deadlines and the exception, and flags one ambiguous sentence.
Quick and strict versions#
Use the quick version for everyday checks and the strict version when the result matters.
Rewrite this in plain, clear English for [YOUR READER]. Keep every fact; cut the padding.
Text: [PASTE YOUR TEXT]Act as a senior editor. Text: [PASTE YOUR TEXT]
Reader and purpose: [READER AND WHAT THEY MUST DO]
1. Rewrite for clarity: main point first, one idea per sentence, plain words, active voice.
2. Keep every fact, number, name, date and caveat; list them before and after to prove nothing was lost.
3. Flag every sentence where the original meaning was ambiguous, with both readings.
4. Give the reading age or grade level before and after.
5. Show the three biggest changes and why you made them.
Do not add claims. Return: Rewrite | Fact checklist (before | after) | Ambiguities | Key changesUse it as an agent skill#
Save this as SKILL.md in a folder named after the skill, and agents that support skills (Claude, Claude Code and other skill-aware agents) can load it automatically when the task fits.
---
name: rewrite-for-clarity
description: Use when the user wants text rewritten to be clearer, shorter or easier to read without changing its meaning.
---
# Rewrite for clarity
Fill each [BRACKETED] field from the conversation. If one is missing, ask the user for it before starting.
Act as a plain-language editor.
The text: [PASTE YOUR TEXT]
The reader: [WHO WILL READ IT]
Rewrite it so that:
1. Each sentence carries one idea, and most are under 20 words.
2. Jargon is replaced with plain words, or explained the first time.
3. The main point comes first.
4. Passive voice and filler phrases are removed where possible.
5. Every fact, number, name and caveat in the original is kept.
Do not add new claims or change the meaning. After the rewrite, list any sentence whose meaning was unclear in the original.
Frequently asked questions
Will it change my meaning?
The skill tells it to keep every fact and not add claims. The strict version lists facts before and after so you can check.
Can it keep my voice?
Add "keep my tone and voice" to the prompt, and paste a sample of your writing for reference.
Is shorter always clearer?
Not always. The goal is that the reader understands quickly; sometimes that needs an extra sentence of explanation.