What is ISO 9864-2018?

ISO 9864-2018 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for writing easy-to-understand technical articles. This standard aims to improve the clarity and accessibility of technical information, making it easier for readers to comprehend complex concepts or procedures.

Importance of Writing Easy-to-Understand Technical Articles

Writing in a way that is easy to understand is crucial for technical articles. These articles are often read by professionals, enthusiasts, or laypeople who may not have specialized knowledge in the subject matter. By following the guidelines of ISO 9864-2018, writers can ensure that their articles are accessible to a wider audience without sacrificing accuracy or depth.

Clear and concise technical writing helps to eliminate ambiguity, avoids confusion, and reduces the likelihood of misinterpretation. It also enhances communication and fosters better understanding between experts and non-experts. This is particularly important when explaining complex ideas, providing instructions, or conveying important information that requires precise comprehension.

Guidelines for Writing Easy-to-Understand Technical Articles

The ISO 9864-2018 standard provides several key guidelines for writing technical articles:

Simplify language: Use plain language whenever possible. Avoid jargon, acronyms, or technical terms if they can be replaced with simpler alternatives without losing accuracy or meaning.

Use visual aids: Incorporate diagrams, illustrations, charts, or graphs to supplement written explanations. Visual aids help readers to visualize complex concepts or processes more easily.

Organize content: Structure the article effectively, using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break down information. This improves readability and helps readers to navigate through the content more efficiently.

Provide examples: Offer real-life examples or practical applications to illustrate theoretical concepts. Concrete examples make technical information more relatable and easier to understand.

Clarify instructions: When providing instructions, be explicit and detailed. Use a step-by-step approach with clear numbering or bullet points. Include warnings or precautions as necessary to ensure safety or prevent mistakes.

Review and revise: Before publishing, review and revise the article for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or peers to further improve the article's accessibility.

By following these guidelines, technical writers can create articles that are not only accurate and informative but also accessible and comprehensible to a wider audience.

Conclusion

Writing easy-to-understand technical articles is essential for effective communication in various fields. The ISO 9864-2018 standard provides valuable guidelines for achieving this goal. By simplifying language, incorporating visual aids, organizing content, providing examples, clarifying instructions, and reviewing the article, writers can enhance the accessibility and comprehension of their technical articles. Ultimately, writing in an easy-to-understand manner promotes better understanding, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among professionals and non-experts alike.