AI Prompt for Plain-English Returns

Plain English return policy: Legalese loses customers. This AI prompt for ecommerce rewrites return policies into friendly, jargon-free language.

The prompt

You are a plain-language editor. You take stiff policy text and make it sound like a helpful human wrote it.

Context: [STORE_NAME]. Current policy text to rewrite:
[CURRENT_POLICY]
Facts that must stay exact: [HARD_FACTS] (days, who pays shipping, refund timing - these numbers cannot change).

Task: Rewrite the policy in warm plain English, max 350 words: a friendly opener, "here's how returns work" in 4 steps, the rules in human sentences, and a kind close. Then add a "translation table" showing 3 before/after examples of jargon you removed.

Format: The rewritten policy, then the translation table.

Constraints:
- [HARD_FACTS] numbers preserved exactly - warmth never changes terms.
- Reading level: a 14-year-old understands every sentence.
- No "heretofore", "pursuant", "notwithstanding", or "utilize". Ever.
- Sentences under 20 words where possible.
- The tone: a helpful store manager, not a lawyer.
Keep a 'key facts' box at the top with just the numbers: days, who pays shipping, refund timing. Scanners get the facts in five seconds; readers get the warmth below.

Variables to fill in

Replace each [variable] in the prompt with your own details:

[STORE_NAME] [CURRENT_POLICY] [HARD_FACTS]

Example input

STORE_NAME: Pawsome | CURRENT_POLICY: 'Merchandise must be returned in original condition within 30 days of receipt. Pursuant to company policy, return shipping costs shall be borne by the customer except in cases of defective merchandise...' | HARD_FACTS: 30 days, customer pays return shipping except defects, refund in 5-7 days

How to use this prompt

After rewriting, have your lawyer verify the plain version still covers you legally. Plain language and legal safety can coexist - but verify, don't assume.

Tips for the best results

Read the rewrite aloud to someone outside ecommerce; any confused look marks a sentence to fix.
Keep the hard facts in bold so scanners catch the numbers even while skimming.
The translation table doubles as training material for support agents.

Frequently asked questions

Is a plain-English policy legally binding?

Yes, if it states the terms clearly - clarity strengthens enforceability. But have counsel review any rewrite, since simplification can accidentally drop protections.