Report of Findings: Use of Language in Ballot Instructions

by Janice G. Redish, Dana Chisnell, Ethan Newby

In this study, we compared two ballots that differed only in wording and presentation of the language on the ballots. For Ballot A, we used conventional wording and presentation, taken from typical ballots. For Ballot B, we used plain language wording and presentation. In a study of 45 voters in three geographic locations, we compared a ballot with traditional language instructions to a ballot with plain language instructions, we took both performance and preference data Findings and conclusions are included.

198 pages, Paperback

First published May 6, 2009