cw-simplify
Rewrite complex text in plainer language. Invoke with /cw-simplify or /cw-simplify [paste text].
- Installs
- 212
- Last 24h
- +8
- Trending rank
- #9710
- Security
- Not audited
Install
Works with every agent the skills CLI supports.
npx skills add https://github.com/everyinc/compound-writing --skill cw-simplify- 01
Install
Run the command in your project. The CLI asks which agents to install for.
- 02
Describe the task
Ask your agent for something this skill covers. It loads cw-simplify automatically when relevant.
- 03
Review the result
The agent follows the SKILL.md steps, scripts and references bundled with the skill.
SKILL.md
The instructions your agent reads when the skill is triggered.
Simplify
Purpose
Rewrite something complex in plainer, more accessible language without losing meaning.
Invocation
/cw-simplify [text]— Simplify the provided text/cw-simplify— System asks "What section do you want me to simplify?"- Works on selection if provided, asks if not
How to Simplify
-
Identify the core meaning — What is this actually saying?
-
Strip jargon — Replace technical terms with plain equivalents, or define them briefly on first use.
-
Shorten sentences — Break long, complex sentences into shorter ones.
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Use concrete language — Swap abstractions for specific examples.
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Front-load the point — Lead with the main idea, then explain.
-
Preserve precision — Don't oversimplify to the point of inaccuracy.
Output Format
## Simplified Version
[The rewritten text]
---
**What changed:**
- [Brief note on key simplifications]
Does this capture it? Or did I lose something important?
Principles
- Short words over long — "use" not "utilize," "help" not "facilitate"
- Active over passive — "We built" not "It was built by us"
- One idea per sentence — Break up compound ideas
- Concrete over abstract — "a 10% increase" not "significant growth"
- Reader-first — Write for someone encountering this idea for the first time
Simplification Moves
| Complex Pattern | Simplified Version |
|---|---|
| Nominalization (the utilization of) | Verb form (using) |
| Passive voice (was implemented by) | Active voice (we implemented) |
| Jargon (synergize, leverage) | Plain verbs (combine, use) |
| Long sentence with multiple clauses | Multiple short sentences |
| Abstract noun (implementation) | Concrete action (we built) |
| Hedge words (somewhat, perhaps) | Direct statement or cut |
What to Preserve
- Technical accuracy
- Important nuance
- The writer's voice
- Necessary qualifications
Lessons
[Skill-specific lessons will be added here as they're captured]
FAQ
What does the cw-simplify skill do?
Rewrite complex text in plainer language. Invoke with /cw-simplify or /cw-simplify [paste text].
How do I install cw-simplify?
Run npx skills add https://github.com/everyinc/compound-writing --skill cw-simplify in your project. The skills CLI detects the agents you use and copies the skill into the right folder. For Claude Code you can also place the skill folder at ~/.claude/skills/cw-simplify/ (personal) or .claude/skills/cw-simplify/ (project).
Which AI agents can use cw-simplify?
Any agent that supports the open Agent Skills format (a folder with a SKILL.md file), including Claude Code, Codex, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Gemini CLI, Windsurf, Cline, OpenCode and more.
Is cw-simplify safe to install?
No partner security audit is available yet. Skills can run commands and scripts, so read the SKILL.md and any bundled files before installing.
Who maintains cw-simplify?
It is published by everyinc in everyinc/compound-writing. It has 212 recorded installs.
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