How to Use Generic Pronouns

In today's world, avoiding exclusion in communication is important. Race, age and any other divisions are best avoided if possible to get messages across to all walks of life. To handle this problem, the English language is best to use generic pronouns.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Understand what a generic pronoun is. A generic pronoun is a pronoun that has no gender associated with it. Rather than stating "he" or "she," a generic pronoun will in fact state a person or group of people without assigning any male/female status. Once upon a time, communications were notorious for stating gender pronouns with stereotyped marketing and wording. Generic pronoun usage will avoid this.
2. Read the text and see where gender has been mentioned. Read over what has been written and take note where any mentioning of gender has been used. In areas where it is avoidable, leave it (e.g., reference to specific gender positions such as husband, wife, men, women, etc). If a mentioning doesn't have to be gender based, make note.
3. Write with indefinite and generic pronouns. In areas where generic pronouns can be done, do it. For example, where it may state "Everyone should check his watch" use "Everyone should check their watch." For "Make sure the kitchen has what she needs," use "Make sure the kitchen has what you need."
4. Avoid pronoun usage if possible. If it is not neccessary, feel free to avoid pronoun usage at all.
5. Use the pronoun "you." When in doubt, try to make the sentence genderless by using the pronoun "you." For example, instead of saying "He or she should take care of their finances" try stating "You should take care of your finances."