1. A Technical Person’s Approach to Writing
Chapter 2
A Technical Person’s
Approach to Writing
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2. Simplifying the Approach
Tell your readers right away what they most need or want to know
The simplest, fastest, most effective way to plan and write any document, regardless of length
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario

3. The Pyramid Technique Summary Statement Supporting Details
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario

4. Delete irrelevant topics Jot down topics (random)
The Seven Planning Stages
Delete irrelevant topics
No organizing
Jot down topics (random)
Gather Information
Define the Reader
Define the purpose
Group related topics
Minor organizing
Arrange topic groups
Major organizing
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario

5. The Writing Process Writing the first draft Taking a break
Reading with a plan
Checking for clarity
Checking for tone and style
Checking for accuracy
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario

6. Checking for Tone and Style
Finding the best writing level
Keeping to the subject
Using simple words
Removing “fat”
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario

7. Revising Your Own Words
Can my readers understand me?
Is the focus right?
Is my information correct?
Is my language good?
Have I kept my document as short as possible while meeting my readers’ needs and covering the topic?
Copyright © 2012 Pearson Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario