Six Keys to Better Technical Writing

Carlton E. Brett United States Naval Research Laboratory

Abstract

Six ideas for improving technical writing are presented, with illustrative material. Briefly they are: (1) arrangement, attention to logical sequence of ideas; (2) perspicuity, the removal of temptations to interpretation; (3) placement, where the words go for maximum intelligibility; (4) fortuity, the avoidance of pitfalls in writing, particularly accidental humor; (5) economy, the control of repetition and avoidance of the obvious; and (6) transition, the effect of proper connections among ideas how to get from here to there.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
1971-01-01
DOI
10.2190/bejm-5rah-klm3-9rqd
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (2)

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

References (6)

  1. A Dictionary of Comtemporary American Usage
  2. A Dictionary of Modern English Usage
  3. The Reader Over Your Shoulder
  4. Language in Thought and Action
  5. New York Times passim (May 11, 1955 through May 28, 1970).
Show all 6 →
  1. Webster's Third New International Dictionary