What is BS EN 16708:2020?

BS EN 16708:2020, also known as the European standard for Writing an Easy-to-understand Technical Article, is a set of guidelines developed to help writers effectively communicate technical information in a clear and understandable manner. The standard provides recommendations and best practices on various aspects of technical writing, including language, structure, and layout.

The Importance of BS EN 16708:2020

In today's fast-paced world, where information is readily available, it is crucial for technical articles to be easily accessible and comprehensible to a wide audience. BS EN 16708:2020 plays a vital role in ensuring that technical content is user-friendly and can be understood by both experts and non-experts in the field. By following the guidelines outlined in the standard, writers can enhance the overall clarity and readability of their technical articles.

Key Principles of BS EN 16708:2020

The standard emphasizes several key principles that contribute to the easy readability of technical articles:

Simplicity: Keep the language simple and avoid jargon or technical terms whenever possible. If using specialized terms is necessary, provide clear explanations to aid understanding.

Structure: Organize the content logically, using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break down information into easily digestible chunks.

Visuals: Incorporate visuals such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations to supplement the text and make complex concepts more understandable.

Consistency: Maintain consistency in terminology, formatting, and style throughout the article to promote coherence and ease of reading.

Applying BS EN 16708:2020 in Technical Writing

To effectively apply BS EN 16708:2020, writers should start by identifying their target audience and tailoring the content to suit their level of expertise. Clear and concise language should be used, avoiding unnecessary repetition or complex sentence structures.

In addition, using a logical structure with informative headings and subheadings can significantly enhance the readability of the article. Each section should be focused and introduce relevant information in a gradual manner.

Visual aids, such as graphs or diagrams, can be used strategically to support the text and provide visual references for complex concepts. This helps readers grasp the information more easily.

Lastly, maintaining consistency in terminology, formatting, and style ensures that the article flows smoothly and is coherent throughout.

Overall, BS EN 16708:2020 serves as a valuable resource for writers looking to communicate technical information effectively. By adhering to its recommendations, writers can create clear, understandable, and user-friendly technical articles that benefit both experts and non-experts in the field.