Content Style Guide: Writing Before and After Samples

One of the best ways to ensure that our website is user-friendly is to follow industry best practices, keep the content focused on key user tasks, and keep our content up-to-date at all times.

Example 1: Get Help

Before

If you need help locating a particular item that you found through one of our resources, please chat with us.

After

Chat with us to get help.

Example 2: Access for Alumni

Before

Alumni are welcome to browse books on the shelves in most departmental libraries. Additionally, to borrow books or other materials directly from our libraries, patrons must have an alumni association membership card. For more information on obtaining an alumni association membership card, contact Alumni Services. Visitors also have the option of requesting GVSU materials through the interlibrary loan department at their local public or university library.

Some of the GVSU online journals and databases are only available to current students, faculty, and staff. However, these subscription-based resources can be accessed on public computers in the libraries.

After

Alumni may:

Example 4: Printers and Copiers

Before:

There are many study rooms available to use in the Mary Idema Pew and Steelcase Libraries. You can learn more about these rooms by clicking here.

("clicking here" does not describe the destination)

After:

Learn more about our study rooms

Your friendly Web Services Librarian

Profile Photo
Matthew Reidsma
Contact:
116A DEV
(616) 331-3577
Website

Credits

Guide content originally created by Suzanne Chapman for the University of Illinois Libraries. Licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons By 4.0 license.

  • Last Updated: Mar 27, 2024 10:23 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.gvsu.edu/styleguide