Logical Criteria Applied in Writing and in Editing by Text Analysis

Abstract

The problems in technical communications are related more to logical structure than to language. Structure problems occur at document, section, paragraph, and sentence levels. Editing is most effective if it deals with structure first. Structure deficiencies can be detected by applying a range of logical analysis criteria to each text part: looking at the nature and quality of its content and the use of the appropriate discourse sequence. The nature of the content determines where the text part belongs in the section or elsewhere in the document structure. Sufficient definition eliminates vagueness. The correct discourse sequence determines the internal structure of the text part. Lists, headings, classifications, and organograms must comply with the laws of categorization and relevant logical criteria, including some arrived at by lateral thinking.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
1996-01-01
DOI
10.2190/m7bb-umtn-t2fc-b615
Open Access
Closed
Topics

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (3)

  1. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. Technical Communication Quarterly
  3. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Cites in this index (2)

  1. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Also cites 6 works outside this index ↓
  1. 10.1097/00010694-196111000-00034
  2. Medawar P. B., Induction and Intuition in Scientific Thought, Memoirs of the American Philosophical Society, …
  3. 10.1002/anie.198106173
  4. 10.1007/978-94-009-2203-7_6
  5. 10.1093/oso/9780198519737.001.0001
  6. 10.1002/asi.4630210110
CrossRef global citation count: 3 View in citation network →