What is ISO-TR 30198:2013?

ISO-TR 30198:2013, also known as Technical Report ISO/TR 30198, is a document developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It serves as a guideline for technical writing. This report provides recommendations and best practices for authors to produce thorough technical articles.

The Purpose of ISO-TR 30198:2013

The main purpose of ISO-TR 30198:2013 is to help writers effectively communicate technical information to readers. It offers guidance on various aspects of technical writing, such as structure, style, and language usage. The report aims to enhance clarity, consistency, and usability of technical articles in order to facilitate better understanding and interpretation of the subject matter.

Key Recommendations of ISO-TR 30198:2013

ISO-TR 30198:2013 provides several key recommendations that authors should consider when writing technical articles:

Define the Target Audience: Authors should identify the intended readership and tailor their writing style accordingly. Understanding the readers' background and knowledge level helps in determining the appropriate level of technicality and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

Maintain Logical Structure: A clear and logical organization of content is crucial. Authors should use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to present information in a structured manner. This facilitates easy navigation and comprehension.

Use Clear and Concise Language: Technical articles should be written using plain language that is easily understandable by the target audience. Authors should avoid jargon, acronyms, and complex terminology, unless necessary. Definitions, examples, and illustrations can be used to support clarity.

Ensure Consistency: Standards should be followed consistently throughout the article. This includes consistent terminology, abbreviations, units of measurement, and formatting styles. Consistency enhances readability and reduces confusion for the reader.

Conclusion

ISO-TR 30198:2013 is a valuable resource for technical writers, providing recommendations to produce comprehensive and user-friendly articles. By implementing the guidelines outlined in this report, authors can improve the quality and effectiveness of their technical writing, ultimately enhancing the readers' comprehension and satisfaction.