# Simplify

> Simplify content and interactions to reduce cognitive load. Chains: plain-language-design, cognitive-load-assessment, focus-attention-design. Use when given content, a flow, or an interface that needs to be made more accessible.

- Skill: `owl-listener/simplify` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add owl-listener/simplify`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/owl-listener/simplify/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Web & Frontend
- Author: Owl Listener (https://skillmd.com/u/owl-listener)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/owl-listener/simplify

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# Simplify

Take existing content, a flow, or an interface and produce a
cognitively simplified version.

## Process

### Step 1: Assess Current Load
Using **cognitive-load-assessment**, evaluate the current state. Identify
the highest-load elements and classify them as intrinsic or extraneous.

### Step 2: Simplify Language
Using **plain-language-design**, rewrite all user-facing text:
- Reduce to grade 6–8 reading level (grade 4–6 for critical content)
- Replace jargon with plain alternatives
- Shorten sentences to 15–20 words maximum
- Make every instruction specific and single-action

### Step 3: Reduce Visual and Interaction Load
Using **focus-attention-design**, reduce the interface to essentials:
- Identify the one primary action per screen
- De-emphasise or remove secondary elements
- Remove decorative elements that don't serve the task
- Simplify navigation to the minimum effective depth

### Step 4: Present Before and After
Show the original alongside the simplified version with annotations
explaining each change and why it improves cognitive accessibility.

## Output

Deliver the simplified version with a change log that explains every
modification. This allows the team to make informed decisions about
which simplifications to adopt.