Section: Inclusive writing
Go to the main page of this section: Inclusive writing – Guidelines and resources.
On this page
Introduction
To make your writing gender-inclusive, consider personalizing your message by addressing the reader directly. Addressing the reader is an effective technique because “you” is a pronoun that includes all genders.
Gendered sentence | Inclusive solution |
---|---|
The tenant must keep his apartment clean and tidy. | You must keep your apartment clean and tidy. |
The worker is required to punch in before starting her shift. | You are required to punch in before starting your shift. |
The candidate must write his name at the top of his answer sheet. | Write your name at the top of your answer sheet. |
Guidelines for addressing the reader directly
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you suggesting that your reader do something?
- Are you making a request or giving an order?
- Do you need to provide some instructions?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider changing the gendered pronoun to “you” or “your.” The more personal, direct tone that results might suit the message you’re trying to convey.
Gendered sentence | Inclusive solution |
---|---|
A public servant is expected to demonstrate the utmost integrity when dealing with his clients. | As a public servant, you are expected to demonstrate the utmost integrity when dealing with your clients. |
The incumbent is required to perform her tasks in keeping with established service standards. | You must perform your tasks in keeping with established service standards. |
Additional information
Copyright notice for Writing Tips Plus
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
A tool created and made available online by the Translation Bureau, Public Services and Procurement Canada
Search by related themes
Want to learn more about a theme discussed on this page? Click on a link below to see all the pages on the Language Portal of Canada that relate to the theme you selected. The search results will be displayed in Language Navigator.
Related links
- Writing Tips Plus (home page)
- Writing tools
- Language Navigator (for fast access to language tips)
- TERMIUM Plus®