COMPUTER SYSTEMS RESEARCH
Elements of Technical Writing
2005-2006

  • Good technical writing is correct in spelling, punctuation, and grammar
    1. "All writing must follow the rules of spelling, punctuation, and grammar laid down in
      • the U.S. Government Printing Office Style Manual
      • the New York Times Manual of Style and Usage
      • White's Elements of Style and other standard references on the English language
    2. "Many scientists, engineers, and systems professionals are not overly concerned with these seemingly
      picayune matters of English usage. They reason technical people are interested in science and
      technology - not periods, parentheses, and participles."
    3. "Unfortunately, even the most indifferent readers are quick to spot misspelled words, poor grammar, and
      incorrect nomenclature in the writing of others. Such errors indicate that authors are lazy or
      uncaring about their work."