Essential Terms

The readers, users, or stakeholders a writer must consider when planning, drafting, revising, and delivering a technical document

The quality of writing that allows readers to understand information accurately, efficiently, and with the right amount of detail

The situation, medium, audience, purpose, and constraints that shape how a message should be written and delivered

A common expectation or standard pattern used in a specific type of professional or technical communication

The use of headings, spacing, lists, visuals, formatting, and organization to make information easier for readers to find and use

The responsibility to communicate honestly, accurately, fairly, and safely while respecting readers, sources, privacy, and professional standards

The visible structure or arrangement of a document, including layout, headings, sections, spacing, and required document parts

A recurring type of document or communication, such as an email, memo, formal letter, process document, proposal, or online post

Specialized language used by a field, workplace, or profession. Jargon can help expert readers communicate efficiently, but it may need explanation for nonspecialist audiences

The goal a document is meant to accomplish, such as informing, instructing, persuading, requesting action, documenting a process, or supporting a decision