What is EN ISO 5878:2013?

EN ISO 5878:2013 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for writing and understanding technical articles. It aims to ensure clarity, precision, and consistency in technical documentation across different industries. This international standard applies to various fields, including engineering, manufacturing, information technology, and more.

The Purpose of EN ISO 5878:2013

The main purpose of EN ISO 5878:2013 is to establish a set of principles and rules that enable technical writers to present complex information in an easy-to-understand manner. Its guidelines cover several aspects of technical writing, such as vocabulary usage, sentence structure, graphical representations, and referencing sources.

Clarity and Precision

One of the essential aspects emphasized in EN ISO 5878:2013 is the importance of clarity and precision. The document states that technical articles should be written in a way that anyone with a basic understanding of the subject can comprehend them. To achieve this, technical writers are encouraged to use plain language, avoid jargon or acronyms whenever possible, and provide clear explanations of complex concepts.

Consistency and Formatting

Another crucial aspect addressed by EN ISO 5878:2013 is consistency and formatting. The standard advocates for the consistent use of terminology, abbreviations, and symbols throughout the document. In addition, it provides guidelines for the proper citation of sources, the use of headings and subheadings, and the layout of figures and tables. These practices help readers navigate through the article easily and find the information they are looking for.

Overall, EN ISO 5878:2013 serves as a valuable resource for technical writers, ensuring that technical documents are accessible to a wide range of readers. By following its guidelines, writers can effectively communicate complex information and contribute to the broader dissemination of knowledge in their respective fields.