Technical Communication
United States Edition
11th Edition
Published on 9. January 2008
Book
Paperback/Softback
800 pages
978-0-205-55957-2 (ISBN)
Description
Ten editions ago, John Lannon's Technical Communication changed the study of technical communication, and in a new edition, the book reinvents the study of today's communication. Addressing a wide range of interests for students from a variety of majors, the Eleventh Edition of Technical Communication has been updated and streamlined throughout and includes a variety of new Checklists and Guidelines, as well as a unique chapter focused on usability.
More details
Edition
11th edition
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Publishing group
Pearson Education (US)
Target group
College/higher education
Dimensions
Height: 227 mm
Width: 192 mm
Thickness: 29 mm
Weight
1077 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-205-55957-2 (9780205559572)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
New editions
John M. Lannon | Laura J. Gurak
Technical Communication with NEW MyTechCommLab with eText -- Access Card Package
Book
04/2011
12th Edition
Longman Inc
€86.65
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John M. Lannon | Laura J. Gurak
Technical Communication
Book
12/2010
12th Edition
Pearson
€116.55
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Previous edition
Book
04/2008
10th Edition
Longman Inc
€70.55
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Content
** indicates new material
1. Introduction to Technical Communication
Technical Communication Is User-Centered
Technical Communication Is Accessible
Sample Document: A Citizen's Guide to Bioremediation
Technical Communication Comes in All Shapes and Sizes
Technical Communicators Rely on Many Skills
Technical Communication Is Part of Most Careers
Communication Has Both an Electronic and a Human Side
Communication Reaches a Diverse Audience
Consider This: Twenty-First Century Jobs Require Portable Skills
On the Job...Types of Writing
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part I
COMMUNICATING IN THE WORKPLACE
2. Preparing an Effective Technical Document
Complete the Key Tasks
Case Study: Completing the Key Tasks: Delivering the Essential Information; Making a Persuasive Case; Weighing the Ethical Issues; Working on a Team
Rely on Creative and Critical Thinking
Checklist: Creative and Critical Thinking in the Writing Process
Make Proofreading Your Final Step
Guidelines for Proofreading
Checklist: Proofreading
Consider This: Workplace Settings Are Increasingly Virtual
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
3. Delivering Usable Information
Know What Different Audiences Expect
Assess the Audience's Information Needs
Identify Levels of Technicality
The Highly Technical Document
Sample Document: A Technical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
The Semitechnical Document
Sample Document: A Semitechnical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
The Nontechnical Document
Sample Document: A Nontechnical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
Primary and Secondary Audiences
Case Study: Tailoring a Single Document for Different Users
Web-based Documents for Multiple Audiences
Develop an Audience and Use Profile
Audience Characteristics
Purpose of the Document
Intended Use of the Document
Audience's Technical Background
Audience's Cultural Background
Performance Objectives for This Document
Sample Document: Performance Objectives for Using the Model 76 Boban Lawnmower
Setting
Possible Hazards or Sources of Error
Appropriate Details and Layout
Due Date and Timing
Create a Design Plan for the Document
Sample Document: Design Plan for the Lawnmower Manual
Write, Test, and Revise Your Document
Checklist: Usability
Consider This: Communication Failure Can Have Drastic Consequences
On the Job...Audiences
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
4. Being Persuasive
Identify Your Specific Goal
Try to Predict Audience Reaction
Expect Audience Resistance
Know How to Connect with the Audience
Case Study: Connecting with Your Audience: Power Connection; Relationship Connection; Rational Connection
Allow for Give-and-Take
Ask for a Specific Response
Never Ask for Too Much
Recognize All Constraints
Organizational Constraints
Legal Constraints
Ethical Constraints
Time Constraints
Social and Psychological Constraints
Consider This: People Often React Emotionally to Persuasive Appeals
Support Your Claims Convincingly
Offer Convincing Evidence
Appeal to Common Goals and Values
Consider the Cultural Context
Guidelines for Making Your Case
Shaping Your Argument
Sample document: Supporting a Claim with Good Reasons
Checklist: Cross-Cultural Documents
On the Job...Persuasive Challenges
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
5. Weighing the Ethical Issues
Recognize Unethical Communication in the Workplace
Know the Major Causes of Unethical Communication
Yielding to Social Pressure
Mistaking Groupthink for Teamwork
Understand the Potential for Communication Abuse
Suppressing Knowledge the Public Needs
Hiding Conflicts of Interest
Exaggerating Claims about Technology
Falsifying or Fabricating Data
Using Visual Images That Conceal the Truth
Stealing or Divulging Proprietary Information
Misusing Electronic Information
Withholding Information People Need for Their Jobs
Exploiting Cultural Differences
Rely on Critical Thinking for Ethical Decisions
Reasonable Criteria for Ethical Judgment
Ethical Dilemmas
Anticipate Some Hard Choices
Case Study: A Hard Choice
Never Depend Only on Legal Guidelines
Learn to Recognize Plagiarism
Consider This: Ethical Standards Are Good for Business
Decide Where and How to Draw the Line
Guidelines for Ethical Communication
Checklist: Ethical Communication
On the Job...Ethical Issues
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
6. Working in Teams
Teamwork and Project Management
Guidelines for Managing a Collaborative Project
Sample Document: Form for Evaluating Team Members
Conducting Meetings
Guidelines for Running a Meeting
Sources of Conflict in Collaborative Groups
Interpersonal Differences
Gender and Cultural Differences
Managing Group Conflict
Overcoming Differences by Active Listening
Guidelines for Active Listening
Thinking Creatively
Brainstorming
Brainwriting
Mind-Mapping
Storyboarding
Reviewing and Editing Others' Work
Guidelines for Peer Reviewing and Editing
Face-to-Face vs. Electronically Mediated Collaboration
Ethical Abuses in Workplace Collaboration
Consider This: How You Speak Shows Where You Rank
On the Job...Collaborative Writing
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part II
THE RESEARCH PROCESS
7. Thinking Critically about the Research Process
Asking the Right Questions
Case Study: Defining and Refining a Research Question
Exploring a Balance of Views
Achieving Adequate Depth in Your Search
Evaluating Your Findings
Interpreting Your Findings
Consider This: Expert Opinion Is Not Always Reliable
Guidelines for Evaluating Expert Information
EXERCISES
8. Exploring Electronic and Hard Copy Sources
Internet Sources
Online News and Magazines
Government Sites
Community Discussion Groups and Bulletin Boards
Blogs and Wikis
Email Lists
Library Chatrooms
Library Databases Searchable via the Internet
Other Types of Web Sites
Intranets and Extranets
Guidelines for Researching on the Internet
Other Electronic Sources
Compact Discs
Online Retrieval Services
Hard Copy Sources
Reference Works
Card Catalog
Guides to Literature
Indexes
Abstracts
Access Tools for U.S. Government Publications
Microforms
Consider This: Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright of Hard Copy Information
Consider This: Information in Electronic Form is Copyright Protected
On the Job...The Role of Research
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
9. Exploring Primary Sources
Informative Interviews
Guidelines for Informative Interviews
Surveys and Questionnaires
Defining the Survey's Purpose and Target Population
Identifying the Sample Group
Defining the Survey Method
Guidelines for Developing a Questionnaire
A Sample Questionnaire
Sample Documents: Cover Letter and Questionnaire
Inquiry Letters, Phone Calls, and Email Inquiries
Public Records and Organizational Publications
Personal Observation and Experiments
On the Job...The Role of Research
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
10. Evaluating and Interpreting Information
Evaluate the Sources
Guidelines for Evaluating Sources on the Web
Evaluate the Evidence
Guidelines for Evaluating Evidence
Interpret Your Findings
Identify Your Level of Certainty
Examine the Underlying Assumptions
Be Alert for Personal Bias
Consider Other Possible Interpretations
Consider This: Standards of Proof Vary for Different Audiences and Cultural Settings
Avoid Errors in Reasoning
Faulty Generalization
Faulty Causal Reasoning
Faulty Statistical Reasoning
Acknowledge the Limits of Research
Obstacles to Validity and Reliability
Flaws in Research Studies
Measurement Errors
Deceptive Reporting
Guidelines for Evaluating and Interpreting Information
Checklist: The Research Process
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
11. Summarizing and Abstracting Information
Purpose of Summaries
Guidelines for Summarizing Information
What Users Expect from a Summary
Case Study: Creating a Summary
Sample Documents: Article to Be Summarized; Summary of Article; Compressed Summary
Forms of Summarized Information
Closing Summary
Informative Abstract ("Summary")
Descriptive Abstract ("Abstract")
Executive Abstract
Sample Documents: Descriptive Abstract; Executive Abstract
Ethical Considerations in Summarizing Information
Checklist for Usability of Summaries
On the Job...The Importance of Summaries
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part III
STRUCTURE, STYLE, GRAPHICS, AND PAGE DESIGN
12. Organizing for Users
Partitioning and Classifying
Outlining
A Document's Basic Shape
The Formal Outline
Sample Document: A Formal Outline
Organizing for Cross-Cultural Audiences
The Report Design Worksheet
Storyboarding
Sample Document: Report Design Worksheet
Paragraphing
The Support Paragraph
The Topic Sentence
Paragraph Unity
Paragraph Coherence
Paragraph Length
Sequencing
Spatial Sequence
Chronological Sequence
Effect-to-Cause Sequence
Cause-to-Effect Sequence
Emphatic Sequence
Problem-Causes-Solution Sequence
Comparison-Contrast Sequence
Chunking
Creating an Overview
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
13. Editing for Readable Style
Editing for Clarity
Avoid Ambiguous Pronoun References
Avoid Ambiguous Modifiers
Unstack Modifying Nouns
Arrange Word Order for Coherence and Emphasis
Use Active Voice Whenever Possible
Use Passive Voice Selectively
Avoid Overstuffed Sentences
Editing for Conciseness
Avoid Wordy Phrases
Eliminate Redundancy
Avoid Needless Repetition
Avoid There Sentence Openers
Avoid Some It Sentence Openers
Delete Needless Prefaces
Avoid Weak Verbs
Avoid Excessive Prepositions
Fight Noun Addiction
Make Negatives Positive
Clean Out Clutter Words
Delete Needless Qualifiers
Editing for Fluency
Combine Related Ideas
Vary Sentence Construction and Length
Use Short Sentences for Special Emphasis
Finding the Exact Words
Prefer Simple and Familiar Wording
Avoid Useless Jargon
Use Acronyms Selectively
Avoid Triteness
Avoid Misleading Euphemisms
Avoid Overstatement
Avoid Imprecise Wording
Be Specific and Concrete
Adjusting Your Tone
Guidelines for Deciding about Tone
Consider Using an Occasional Contraction
Address Readers Directly
Use I and We When Appropriate
Prefer the Active Voice
Emphasize the Positive
Avoid an Overly Informal Tone
Avoid Personal Bias
Avoid Sexist Usage
Guidelines for Nonsexist Usage
Avoid Offensive Usage of All Types
Guidelines for Inoffensive Usage
Considering the Cultural Context
Legal and Ethical Implications of Word Choice
Using Automated Editing Tools Effectively
Checklist: Style
On the Job...Revising a Document
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
14. Designing Visual Information
Why Visuals Are Important
When to Use Visuals
What Types of Visuals to Consider
How to Select Visuals for Your Purpose and Audience
Tables
Graphs
Bar Graphs
Line Graphs
Guidelines for Displaying a Line Graph
Charts
Pie Charts
Guidelines for Displaying a Pie Chart
Organization Charts
Flowcharts
Tree Charts
Gantt and PERT Charts
Pictograms
Graphic Illustrations
Diagrams
Maps
Photographs
Guidelines for Using Photographs
Computer Graphics
Using the Software
Using Symbols and Icons
Using Visualization
Using Color
Guidelines for Incorporating Color
How to Avoid "Visual Noise"
Visuals and Ethics
Present the Real Picture
Present the Complete Picture
Don't Mistake Distortion for Emphasis
Guidelines for Fitting Visuals with Text
Cultural Considerations
Checklist: Usability of Visuals
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
15. Designing Pages and Documents
Page Design in Workplace Documents
How Page Design Transforms a Document
Sample Documents: Ineffective and Effective Page Design
Design Skills Needed in Today's Workplace
Desktop Publishing
Electronic Publishing
Using Style sheets and Company Style guides
Creating a Usable Design
Shaping the Page
Using Typography Effectively
Guidelines for Highlighting for Emphasis
Using Headings for Access and Orientation
Guidelines for Using Headings
Audience Considerations in Page Design
Designing On-Screen Documents
Web Pages
Online Help
Adobe Acrobat (TM) and PDF Files
CDs and Other Media
Checklist: Usability of Page Design
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
PART IV: SPECIFIC DOCUMENTS AND APPLICATIONS
16. Memo Reports and Electronic Correspondence
Documents in Hard-Copy vs. Digital Format
Types of Memo Reports
Informational vs. Analytical Reports
Formal vs. Informal Reports
Purpose of Memo Reports
Elements of a Usable Memo
Interpersonal Considerations in Writing a Memo
Direct vs. Indirect Organizing Patterns
Informational Reports in Memo Form
Progress Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Brief Progress Report; Long-term Progress Report
Periodic Activity Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Periodic Activity Report
Meeting Minutes
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Meeting Minutes
Analytical Reports in Memo Form
Feasibility Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Feasibility Analysis
Recommendation Reports
Case Study: A Problem-Solving Recommendation
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Recommendation Memo
Justification Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Justification Report
Checklist for Usability of Memo Reports
Electronic Mail
Email Benefits
Email Copyright Issues
Email Privacy Issues
Guidelines for Using Electronic Mail
Guidelines for Choosing Email vs. Paper, Telephone, or Fax
Checklist: Usability of Email
Instant Messaging
Corporate Blogs and Wikis
Internal Blogs
External Blogs
RSS Feeds
Ethical, Legal, and Privacy Issues
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
17. Workplace Letters
Elements of Usable Letters
Basic Parts of Letters
Sample DOCUMENT: Standard Design for a Workplace Letter: Proposal and Estimate for Home Repairs
Specialized Parts of Letters
Design Features
Interpersonal Considerations in Workplace Letters
Conveying Bad or Unwelcome News
Guidelines for Conveying Bad News
Inquiry Letters
Guidelines for Writing an Inquiry
Requesting Information
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Unsolicited Inquiry
Requesting an Interview
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for an Interview
Telephone and Email Inquiries
Claim Letters
Routine Claims
Guidelines for Routine Claim Letters
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Routine Claim Letter
Arguable Claims
Guidelines for Arguable Claim Letters
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Arguable Claim Letter
Adjustment Letters
Granting Adjustments
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter Granting an Adjustment
Refusing Adjustments
Guidelines for Refusals
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter Refusing an Adjustment
Checklist: Usability of Letters
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
18. Employment Correspondence
Employment Outlook in the Twenty-First Century
Prospecting for Jobs
Search Online
Preparing Your Resume
Typical Components of a Resume
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for References
Case: Resumes for Different Situations: Composing a Reverse Chronological Resume; Composing a Function Resume; Composing a Modified Functional Resume
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Reverse Chronological Resume; Functional Resume; Resume with Combined Organization
Guidelines for Resumes
Preparing Your Job Application Letter
The Solicited Application Letter
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Solicited Job Application Letter; A Solicited Internship Application Letter
The Unsolicited Application Letter
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Unsolicited Application Letter
Guidelines for Job Application Letters
Consider This: How Applicants Are Screened for Personal Qualities
Submitting Electronic Resumes
How Scanning Works
Guidelines for Preparing a Scannable Resume
Types of Electronic Resumes
Protecting Privacy and Security When You Post a Resume Online
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Computer-Scannable Resume; A Searchable Resume
Protecting Your Good Name Online
Support for the Application
Your Dossier
Your Professional Portfolio
Employment Interviews
Guidelines for Surviving a Job Interview
The Follow-Up Letter
Letters of Acceptance or Refusal
Checklist: Usability of Letters
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
19. Web Pages
HTML: Hypertext Markup Language
Elements of a Usable Web Site
Guidelines for Creating a Web Site
Laying Out Your Pages
Checking, Testing, and Monitoring Your Site
Privacy Issues in Online Communication
Checklist: Usability of Web Sites
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
20. Technical Definitions
Purpose of Technical Definitions
Levels of Detail in a Definition
Parenthetical Definition
Sentence Definition
Expanded Definition
Sample DOCUMENT: An Expanded Definition
Expansion Methods
Etymology
History and Background
Negation
Operating Principle
Analysis of Parts
Visuals
Comparison and Contrast
Required Materials or Conditions
Example
Situations Requiring Definitions
Case: Anexpanded definition for semitechnical readers: Solenoid
Case: An expanded definition for Nontechnical readers: Nanotechnology
Placement of Definitions
Guidelines for Defining Clearly and Precisely
Checklist: Usability of Definitions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Expanded Definition in a Technical Brochure; Expanded Definition in a FAQ List Format; Definition for Laypersons in a Two-Column Brochure
21. Technical Descriptions and Specifications
Technical Descriptions and Specifications
Purposes and Types of Technical Description
Objectivity in Technical Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Product Description; A Process Description
Elements of a Usable Description
Clear and Limiting Title
Appropriate Level of Detail and Technicality
Visuals
Clearest Descriptive Sequence
An Outline and Model for Product Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Product Description: The Standard Stethoscope
Description and Function of Parts
Summary and Operating Description
Case: A Situation Requiring Product Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Mechanism Description for a Nontechnical Audience
An Outline for Process Description
Case: A Situation Requiring Process Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Process Description for a Nontechnical Audience
Specifications
sample Documents: Specifications for a Building Project
Technical Marketing Literature
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical brochure: Marvin (TM) Windows
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical Marketing Web Page: Marvin (TM) Double Hung Window
Checklist: Usability of Technical Descriptions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical Marketing Fact Sheet
22. Instructions and Procedures
Purpose of Instructional Documents
Formats for Instructional Documents
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Foldout Instructional Brochure
Faulty Instructions and Legal Liability
Elements of Usable Instruction
Clear and Limiting Title
Informed Content
Visuals
Appropriate Level of Detail and Technicality
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Appropriate Instructions
Logically Ordered Steps
Notes and Hazard Notices
Readability
Effective Design
Guidelines for Designing Instructions
An Outline and Model for Instructions
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Instructions for using the OCLC Terminal
Body: Required Steps
Conclusion
Case: A Situation Requiring Instructions
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Set of Instructions
Online Documentation
Testing the Usability of Your Document
How Usability Testing Is Done
Qualitative Testing
Quantitative Testing
Usability Testing in the Classroom
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Basic Usability Survey
Procedures
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Standard Operating Procedure; A Safety Procedure
Checklist: Usability of Instructions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Instructions for Leak Testing an Outdoor Grille
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Procedure for Caring for Contact Lenses
23. Proposals
How Proposals and Reports Differ in Purpose
The Proposal Audience
The Proposal Process
Case: Submitting a Competitive Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for Proposal
Proposal Types
Planning Proposal
Case: Developing a Planning Proposal
Research Proposal
Case: Developing a Research Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Research Proposal
Sales Proposal
Case: Developing a Sales Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Sales Proposal
Elements of a Persuasive Proposal
A Forecasting Title
Clear Understanding of the Audience's Needs
A Clear Focus on Benefits
Honest and Supportable Claims
Appropriate Detail
Readability
Convincing Language
Visuals
Accessible Page Design
Supplements Tailored for a Diverse Audience
Proper Citation of Sources and Contributors
An Outline and Model for Proposals
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Introduction to a Proposal for Reducing Noise in a College Library
Body
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Body of a Proposal for Reducing Noise in a College Library
Conclusion
Case: A Situation Requiring a Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Funding Proposal
Checklist: Usability of Proposals
EXERCISES
Service-Learning Project
24. Formal Analytical Reports
Purpose of Analysis
Typical Analytical Problems
Causal Analysis: "Why Does X Happen?"
Comparative Analysis: "Is X or Y Better for Our Purpose?"
Feasibility Analysis: "Is This a Good Idea?"
Combining Types of Analysis
Elements of a Usable Analysis
Clearly Identified Problem or Goal
Adequate but Not Excessive Data
Accurate and Balanced Data
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Summary Description of a Feasibility Study
Fully Interpreted Data
Subordination of Personal Bias
Appropriate Visuals
Valid Conclusions and Recommendations
Self-Assessment
An outline and Model for Analytical Reports
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Introduction to a Causal Analysis
Body
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Data Section of a Causal Analysis
Conclusion
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Conclusion to a Causal Analysis
Supplements
Case: A Situation Requiring an Analytical Report
Sample Document: An Analytical Report
Guidelines for Reasoning through an Analytical Problem
Checklist: Usability of Analytical Reports
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
25. Front Matter and End Matter In Long Documents
Cover
Title Page
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Title Page for a Formal Report
Letter of Transmittal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter of Transmittal for a Formal Report
Table of Contents
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Table of Contents for a Formal Report
List of Tables and Figures
Abstract or Executive Summary
Glossary
Appendices
Documentation
EXERCISES
26. Oral Presentations
Advantages and Drawbacks of Oral Reports
Avoiding Presentation Pitfalls
Planning Your Presentation
Analyze Your Listeners
Checklist: Analyzing Your Listeners and Purpose
Work from an Explicit Purpose Statement
Analyze Your Speaking Situation
Select a Delivery Method
Preparing Your Presentation
Research Your Topic
Aim for Simplicity and Conciseness
Anticipate Audience Questions
Outline Your Presentation
Sample document: A Presentation Outline
Plan Your Visuals
Prepare Your Visuals
Guidelines for Readable Visuals
Guidelines for Understandable Visuals
Consider the Available Technology
Use PowerPoint (R) and Other Software Wisely
Case: PowerPoint and the Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster
Guidelines for Using Presentation Software
Rehearse Your Delivery
Delivering Your Presentation
Cultivate the Human Landscape
Keep Your Listeners Oriented
Manage Your Visuals
Guidelines for Presenting Visuals
Manage Your Presentation Style
Manage Your Speaking Situation
Guidelines for Managing Listener Questions
Consider This: Cross-Cultural Audiences May Have Specific Expectations
EXERCISES
A QUICK GUIDE TO DOCUMENTATION
Taking Notes
Quoting the Work of Others
Paraphrasing the Work of Others
What You Should Document
How You Should Document
MLA Documentation Style
MLA Parenthetical References
MLA Works Cited Entries
Index to Sample MLA Works Cited Entries
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: MLA Works Cited Page
APA Documentation Style
APA Parenthetical References
APA Reference List Entries
Index to Sample APA Reference Entries
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: APA Reference List
CSE and Other Numbered Documentation Styles
CSE Numbered Citations
Index to Sample CSE Entries
A QUICK GUIDE TO GRAMMAR, USAGE, AND MECHANICS
Common Sentence Errors
Effective Punctuation
Mechanics
A CASEBOOK: THE WRITING PROCESS ILLUSTRATED
Critical Thinking in the Writing Process
Case #1: An Everyday Writing Situation: The Evolution of a Short Report
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Final Draft Report: October Management Training Program Evaluation and Recommendations
Case #2: Preparing a Personal Statement in an Internship or Fellowship Application
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Early Draft: Personal Statement for a Marine Biology Internship
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Final Draft: Personal Statement for a Marine Biology Internship
Case #3: Documents for the Course Project: A Sequence Culminating in the Final Report
The Project Documents
The Proposal Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Proposal: Studying Ways to Improve Quality Control at Megacrunch
The Progress Report Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Progress Report
The Final Report Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Final Report
Additional Documents: A Personal Statement to Accompany an Application to Medical School; A Personal Statement to Accompany an Application to Law School
1. Introduction to Technical Communication
Technical Communication Is User-Centered
Technical Communication Is Accessible
Sample Document: A Citizen's Guide to Bioremediation
Technical Communication Comes in All Shapes and Sizes
Technical Communicators Rely on Many Skills
Technical Communication Is Part of Most Careers
Communication Has Both an Electronic and a Human Side
Communication Reaches a Diverse Audience
Consider This: Twenty-First Century Jobs Require Portable Skills
On the Job...Types of Writing
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part I
COMMUNICATING IN THE WORKPLACE
2. Preparing an Effective Technical Document
Complete the Key Tasks
Case Study: Completing the Key Tasks: Delivering the Essential Information; Making a Persuasive Case; Weighing the Ethical Issues; Working on a Team
Rely on Creative and Critical Thinking
Checklist: Creative and Critical Thinking in the Writing Process
Make Proofreading Your Final Step
Guidelines for Proofreading
Checklist: Proofreading
Consider This: Workplace Settings Are Increasingly Virtual
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
3. Delivering Usable Information
Know What Different Audiences Expect
Assess the Audience's Information Needs
Identify Levels of Technicality
The Highly Technical Document
Sample Document: A Technical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
The Semitechnical Document
Sample Document: A Semitechnical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
The Nontechnical Document
Sample Document: A Nontechnical Version of an Emergency Treatment Report
Primary and Secondary Audiences
Case Study: Tailoring a Single Document for Different Users
Web-based Documents for Multiple Audiences
Develop an Audience and Use Profile
Audience Characteristics
Purpose of the Document
Intended Use of the Document
Audience's Technical Background
Audience's Cultural Background
Performance Objectives for This Document
Sample Document: Performance Objectives for Using the Model 76 Boban Lawnmower
Setting
Possible Hazards or Sources of Error
Appropriate Details and Layout
Due Date and Timing
Create a Design Plan for the Document
Sample Document: Design Plan for the Lawnmower Manual
Write, Test, and Revise Your Document
Checklist: Usability
Consider This: Communication Failure Can Have Drastic Consequences
On the Job...Audiences
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
4. Being Persuasive
Identify Your Specific Goal
Try to Predict Audience Reaction
Expect Audience Resistance
Know How to Connect with the Audience
Case Study: Connecting with Your Audience: Power Connection; Relationship Connection; Rational Connection
Allow for Give-and-Take
Ask for a Specific Response
Never Ask for Too Much
Recognize All Constraints
Organizational Constraints
Legal Constraints
Ethical Constraints
Time Constraints
Social and Psychological Constraints
Consider This: People Often React Emotionally to Persuasive Appeals
Support Your Claims Convincingly
Offer Convincing Evidence
Appeal to Common Goals and Values
Consider the Cultural Context
Guidelines for Making Your Case
Shaping Your Argument
Sample document: Supporting a Claim with Good Reasons
Checklist: Cross-Cultural Documents
On the Job...Persuasive Challenges
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
5. Weighing the Ethical Issues
Recognize Unethical Communication in the Workplace
Know the Major Causes of Unethical Communication
Yielding to Social Pressure
Mistaking Groupthink for Teamwork
Understand the Potential for Communication Abuse
Suppressing Knowledge the Public Needs
Hiding Conflicts of Interest
Exaggerating Claims about Technology
Falsifying or Fabricating Data
Using Visual Images That Conceal the Truth
Stealing or Divulging Proprietary Information
Misusing Electronic Information
Withholding Information People Need for Their Jobs
Exploiting Cultural Differences
Rely on Critical Thinking for Ethical Decisions
Reasonable Criteria for Ethical Judgment
Ethical Dilemmas
Anticipate Some Hard Choices
Case Study: A Hard Choice
Never Depend Only on Legal Guidelines
Learn to Recognize Plagiarism
Consider This: Ethical Standards Are Good for Business
Decide Where and How to Draw the Line
Guidelines for Ethical Communication
Checklist: Ethical Communication
On the Job...Ethical Issues
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
6. Working in Teams
Teamwork and Project Management
Guidelines for Managing a Collaborative Project
Sample Document: Form for Evaluating Team Members
Conducting Meetings
Guidelines for Running a Meeting
Sources of Conflict in Collaborative Groups
Interpersonal Differences
Gender and Cultural Differences
Managing Group Conflict
Overcoming Differences by Active Listening
Guidelines for Active Listening
Thinking Creatively
Brainstorming
Brainwriting
Mind-Mapping
Storyboarding
Reviewing and Editing Others' Work
Guidelines for Peer Reviewing and Editing
Face-to-Face vs. Electronically Mediated Collaboration
Ethical Abuses in Workplace Collaboration
Consider This: How You Speak Shows Where You Rank
On the Job...Collaborative Writing
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part II
THE RESEARCH PROCESS
7. Thinking Critically about the Research Process
Asking the Right Questions
Case Study: Defining and Refining a Research Question
Exploring a Balance of Views
Achieving Adequate Depth in Your Search
Evaluating Your Findings
Interpreting Your Findings
Consider This: Expert Opinion Is Not Always Reliable
Guidelines for Evaluating Expert Information
EXERCISES
8. Exploring Electronic and Hard Copy Sources
Internet Sources
Online News and Magazines
Government Sites
Community Discussion Groups and Bulletin Boards
Blogs and Wikis
Email Lists
Library Chatrooms
Library Databases Searchable via the Internet
Other Types of Web Sites
Intranets and Extranets
Guidelines for Researching on the Internet
Other Electronic Sources
Compact Discs
Online Retrieval Services
Hard Copy Sources
Reference Works
Card Catalog
Guides to Literature
Indexes
Abstracts
Access Tools for U.S. Government Publications
Microforms
Consider This: Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright of Hard Copy Information
Consider This: Information in Electronic Form is Copyright Protected
On the Job...The Role of Research
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
9. Exploring Primary Sources
Informative Interviews
Guidelines for Informative Interviews
Surveys and Questionnaires
Defining the Survey's Purpose and Target Population
Identifying the Sample Group
Defining the Survey Method
Guidelines for Developing a Questionnaire
A Sample Questionnaire
Sample Documents: Cover Letter and Questionnaire
Inquiry Letters, Phone Calls, and Email Inquiries
Public Records and Organizational Publications
Personal Observation and Experiments
On the Job...The Role of Research
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
10. Evaluating and Interpreting Information
Evaluate the Sources
Guidelines for Evaluating Sources on the Web
Evaluate the Evidence
Guidelines for Evaluating Evidence
Interpret Your Findings
Identify Your Level of Certainty
Examine the Underlying Assumptions
Be Alert for Personal Bias
Consider Other Possible Interpretations
Consider This: Standards of Proof Vary for Different Audiences and Cultural Settings
Avoid Errors in Reasoning
Faulty Generalization
Faulty Causal Reasoning
Faulty Statistical Reasoning
Acknowledge the Limits of Research
Obstacles to Validity and Reliability
Flaws in Research Studies
Measurement Errors
Deceptive Reporting
Guidelines for Evaluating and Interpreting Information
Checklist: The Research Process
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
11. Summarizing and Abstracting Information
Purpose of Summaries
Guidelines for Summarizing Information
What Users Expect from a Summary
Case Study: Creating a Summary
Sample Documents: Article to Be Summarized; Summary of Article; Compressed Summary
Forms of Summarized Information
Closing Summary
Informative Abstract ("Summary")
Descriptive Abstract ("Abstract")
Executive Abstract
Sample Documents: Descriptive Abstract; Executive Abstract
Ethical Considerations in Summarizing Information
Checklist for Usability of Summaries
On the Job...The Importance of Summaries
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
Part III
STRUCTURE, STYLE, GRAPHICS, AND PAGE DESIGN
12. Organizing for Users
Partitioning and Classifying
Outlining
A Document's Basic Shape
The Formal Outline
Sample Document: A Formal Outline
Organizing for Cross-Cultural Audiences
The Report Design Worksheet
Storyboarding
Sample Document: Report Design Worksheet
Paragraphing
The Support Paragraph
The Topic Sentence
Paragraph Unity
Paragraph Coherence
Paragraph Length
Sequencing
Spatial Sequence
Chronological Sequence
Effect-to-Cause Sequence
Cause-to-Effect Sequence
Emphatic Sequence
Problem-Causes-Solution Sequence
Comparison-Contrast Sequence
Chunking
Creating an Overview
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
13. Editing for Readable Style
Editing for Clarity
Avoid Ambiguous Pronoun References
Avoid Ambiguous Modifiers
Unstack Modifying Nouns
Arrange Word Order for Coherence and Emphasis
Use Active Voice Whenever Possible
Use Passive Voice Selectively
Avoid Overstuffed Sentences
Editing for Conciseness
Avoid Wordy Phrases
Eliminate Redundancy
Avoid Needless Repetition
Avoid There Sentence Openers
Avoid Some It Sentence Openers
Delete Needless Prefaces
Avoid Weak Verbs
Avoid Excessive Prepositions
Fight Noun Addiction
Make Negatives Positive
Clean Out Clutter Words
Delete Needless Qualifiers
Editing for Fluency
Combine Related Ideas
Vary Sentence Construction and Length
Use Short Sentences for Special Emphasis
Finding the Exact Words
Prefer Simple and Familiar Wording
Avoid Useless Jargon
Use Acronyms Selectively
Avoid Triteness
Avoid Misleading Euphemisms
Avoid Overstatement
Avoid Imprecise Wording
Be Specific and Concrete
Adjusting Your Tone
Guidelines for Deciding about Tone
Consider Using an Occasional Contraction
Address Readers Directly
Use I and We When Appropriate
Prefer the Active Voice
Emphasize the Positive
Avoid an Overly Informal Tone
Avoid Personal Bias
Avoid Sexist Usage
Guidelines for Nonsexist Usage
Avoid Offensive Usage of All Types
Guidelines for Inoffensive Usage
Considering the Cultural Context
Legal and Ethical Implications of Word Choice
Using Automated Editing Tools Effectively
Checklist: Style
On the Job...Revising a Document
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
14. Designing Visual Information
Why Visuals Are Important
When to Use Visuals
What Types of Visuals to Consider
How to Select Visuals for Your Purpose and Audience
Tables
Graphs
Bar Graphs
Line Graphs
Guidelines for Displaying a Line Graph
Charts
Pie Charts
Guidelines for Displaying a Pie Chart
Organization Charts
Flowcharts
Tree Charts
Gantt and PERT Charts
Pictograms
Graphic Illustrations
Diagrams
Maps
Photographs
Guidelines for Using Photographs
Computer Graphics
Using the Software
Using Symbols and Icons
Using Visualization
Using Color
Guidelines for Incorporating Color
How to Avoid "Visual Noise"
Visuals and Ethics
Present the Real Picture
Present the Complete Picture
Don't Mistake Distortion for Emphasis
Guidelines for Fitting Visuals with Text
Cultural Considerations
Checklist: Usability of Visuals
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
15. Designing Pages and Documents
Page Design in Workplace Documents
How Page Design Transforms a Document
Sample Documents: Ineffective and Effective Page Design
Design Skills Needed in Today's Workplace
Desktop Publishing
Electronic Publishing
Using Style sheets and Company Style guides
Creating a Usable Design
Shaping the Page
Using Typography Effectively
Guidelines for Highlighting for Emphasis
Using Headings for Access and Orientation
Guidelines for Using Headings
Audience Considerations in Page Design
Designing On-Screen Documents
Web Pages
Online Help
Adobe Acrobat (TM) and PDF Files
CDs and Other Media
Checklist: Usability of Page Design
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
PART IV: SPECIFIC DOCUMENTS AND APPLICATIONS
16. Memo Reports and Electronic Correspondence
Documents in Hard-Copy vs. Digital Format
Types of Memo Reports
Informational vs. Analytical Reports
Formal vs. Informal Reports
Purpose of Memo Reports
Elements of a Usable Memo
Interpersonal Considerations in Writing a Memo
Direct vs. Indirect Organizing Patterns
Informational Reports in Memo Form
Progress Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Brief Progress Report; Long-term Progress Report
Periodic Activity Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Periodic Activity Report
Meeting Minutes
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Meeting Minutes
Analytical Reports in Memo Form
Feasibility Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Feasibility Analysis
Recommendation Reports
Case Study: A Problem-Solving Recommendation
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Recommendation Memo
Justification Reports
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Justification Report
Checklist for Usability of Memo Reports
Electronic Mail
Email Benefits
Email Copyright Issues
Email Privacy Issues
Guidelines for Using Electronic Mail
Guidelines for Choosing Email vs. Paper, Telephone, or Fax
Checklist: Usability of Email
Instant Messaging
Corporate Blogs and Wikis
Internal Blogs
External Blogs
RSS Feeds
Ethical, Legal, and Privacy Issues
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
17. Workplace Letters
Elements of Usable Letters
Basic Parts of Letters
Sample DOCUMENT: Standard Design for a Workplace Letter: Proposal and Estimate for Home Repairs
Specialized Parts of Letters
Design Features
Interpersonal Considerations in Workplace Letters
Conveying Bad or Unwelcome News
Guidelines for Conveying Bad News
Inquiry Letters
Guidelines for Writing an Inquiry
Requesting Information
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Unsolicited Inquiry
Requesting an Interview
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for an Interview
Telephone and Email Inquiries
Claim Letters
Routine Claims
Guidelines for Routine Claim Letters
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Routine Claim Letter
Arguable Claims
Guidelines for Arguable Claim Letters
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Arguable Claim Letter
Adjustment Letters
Granting Adjustments
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter Granting an Adjustment
Refusing Adjustments
Guidelines for Refusals
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter Refusing an Adjustment
Checklist: Usability of Letters
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
18. Employment Correspondence
Employment Outlook in the Twenty-First Century
Prospecting for Jobs
Search Online
Preparing Your Resume
Typical Components of a Resume
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for References
Case: Resumes for Different Situations: Composing a Reverse Chronological Resume; Composing a Function Resume; Composing a Modified Functional Resume
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Reverse Chronological Resume; Functional Resume; Resume with Combined Organization
Guidelines for Resumes
Preparing Your Job Application Letter
The Solicited Application Letter
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Solicited Job Application Letter; A Solicited Internship Application Letter
The Unsolicited Application Letter
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: An Unsolicited Application Letter
Guidelines for Job Application Letters
Consider This: How Applicants Are Screened for Personal Qualities
Submitting Electronic Resumes
How Scanning Works
Guidelines for Preparing a Scannable Resume
Types of Electronic Resumes
Protecting Privacy and Security When You Post a Resume Online
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Computer-Scannable Resume; A Searchable Resume
Protecting Your Good Name Online
Support for the Application
Your Dossier
Your Professional Portfolio
Employment Interviews
Guidelines for Surviving a Job Interview
The Follow-Up Letter
Letters of Acceptance or Refusal
Checklist: Usability of Letters
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
19. Web Pages
HTML: Hypertext Markup Language
Elements of a Usable Web Site
Guidelines for Creating a Web Site
Laying Out Your Pages
Checking, Testing, and Monitoring Your Site
Privacy Issues in Online Communication
Checklist: Usability of Web Sites
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
20. Technical Definitions
Purpose of Technical Definitions
Levels of Detail in a Definition
Parenthetical Definition
Sentence Definition
Expanded Definition
Sample DOCUMENT: An Expanded Definition
Expansion Methods
Etymology
History and Background
Negation
Operating Principle
Analysis of Parts
Visuals
Comparison and Contrast
Required Materials or Conditions
Example
Situations Requiring Definitions
Case: Anexpanded definition for semitechnical readers: Solenoid
Case: An expanded definition for Nontechnical readers: Nanotechnology
Placement of Definitions
Guidelines for Defining Clearly and Precisely
Checklist: Usability of Definitions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: Expanded Definition in a Technical Brochure; Expanded Definition in a FAQ List Format; Definition for Laypersons in a Two-Column Brochure
21. Technical Descriptions and Specifications
Technical Descriptions and Specifications
Purposes and Types of Technical Description
Objectivity in Technical Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Product Description; A Process Description
Elements of a Usable Description
Clear and Limiting Title
Appropriate Level of Detail and Technicality
Visuals
Clearest Descriptive Sequence
An Outline and Model for Product Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Product Description: The Standard Stethoscope
Description and Function of Parts
Summary and Operating Description
Case: A Situation Requiring Product Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Mechanism Description for a Nontechnical Audience
An Outline for Process Description
Case: A Situation Requiring Process Description
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Process Description for a Nontechnical Audience
Specifications
sample Documents: Specifications for a Building Project
Technical Marketing Literature
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical brochure: Marvin (TM) Windows
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical Marketing Web Page: Marvin (TM) Double Hung Window
Checklist: Usability of Technical Descriptions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Technical Marketing Fact Sheet
22. Instructions and Procedures
Purpose of Instructional Documents
Formats for Instructional Documents
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Foldout Instructional Brochure
Faulty Instructions and Legal Liability
Elements of Usable Instruction
Clear and Limiting Title
Informed Content
Visuals
Appropriate Level of Detail and Technicality
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Appropriate Instructions
Logically Ordered Steps
Notes and Hazard Notices
Readability
Effective Design
Guidelines for Designing Instructions
An Outline and Model for Instructions
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Instructions for using the OCLC Terminal
Body: Required Steps
Conclusion
Case: A Situation Requiring Instructions
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Set of Instructions
Online Documentation
Testing the Usability of Your Document
How Usability Testing Is Done
Qualitative Testing
Quantitative Testing
Usability Testing in the Classroom
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Basic Usability Survey
Procedures
SAMPLE DOCUMENTS: A Standard Operating Procedure; A Safety Procedure
Checklist: Usability of Instructions
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
Service-Learning Project
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Instructions for Leak Testing an Outdoor Grille
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Procedure for Caring for Contact Lenses
23. Proposals
How Proposals and Reports Differ in Purpose
The Proposal Audience
The Proposal Process
Case: Submitting a Competitive Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Request for Proposal
Proposal Types
Planning Proposal
Case: Developing a Planning Proposal
Research Proposal
Case: Developing a Research Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Research Proposal
Sales Proposal
Case: Developing a Sales Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Sales Proposal
Elements of a Persuasive Proposal
A Forecasting Title
Clear Understanding of the Audience's Needs
A Clear Focus on Benefits
Honest and Supportable Claims
Appropriate Detail
Readability
Convincing Language
Visuals
Accessible Page Design
Supplements Tailored for a Diverse Audience
Proper Citation of Sources and Contributors
An Outline and Model for Proposals
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Introduction to a Proposal for Reducing Noise in a College Library
Body
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Body of a Proposal for Reducing Noise in a College Library
Conclusion
Case: A Situation Requiring a Proposal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Funding Proposal
Checklist: Usability of Proposals
EXERCISES
Service-Learning Project
24. Formal Analytical Reports
Purpose of Analysis
Typical Analytical Problems
Causal Analysis: "Why Does X Happen?"
Comparative Analysis: "Is X or Y Better for Our Purpose?"
Feasibility Analysis: "Is This a Good Idea?"
Combining Types of Analysis
Elements of a Usable Analysis
Clearly Identified Problem or Goal
Adequate but Not Excessive Data
Accurate and Balanced Data
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Summary Description of a Feasibility Study
Fully Interpreted Data
Subordination of Personal Bias
Appropriate Visuals
Valid Conclusions and Recommendations
Self-Assessment
An outline and Model for Analytical Reports
Introduction
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Introduction to a Causal Analysis
Body
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Data Section of a Causal Analysis
Conclusion
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Conclusion to a Causal Analysis
Supplements
Case: A Situation Requiring an Analytical Report
Sample Document: An Analytical Report
Guidelines for Reasoning through an Analytical Problem
Checklist: Usability of Analytical Reports
EXERCISES
Collaborative Project
25. Front Matter and End Matter In Long Documents
Cover
Title Page
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Title Page for a Formal Report
Letter of Transmittal
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Letter of Transmittal for a Formal Report
Table of Contents
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Table of Contents for a Formal Report
List of Tables and Figures
Abstract or Executive Summary
Glossary
Appendices
Documentation
EXERCISES
26. Oral Presentations
Advantages and Drawbacks of Oral Reports
Avoiding Presentation Pitfalls
Planning Your Presentation
Analyze Your Listeners
Checklist: Analyzing Your Listeners and Purpose
Work from an Explicit Purpose Statement
Analyze Your Speaking Situation
Select a Delivery Method
Preparing Your Presentation
Research Your Topic
Aim for Simplicity and Conciseness
Anticipate Audience Questions
Outline Your Presentation
Sample document: A Presentation Outline
Plan Your Visuals
Prepare Your Visuals
Guidelines for Readable Visuals
Guidelines for Understandable Visuals
Consider the Available Technology
Use PowerPoint (R) and Other Software Wisely
Case: PowerPoint and the Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster
Guidelines for Using Presentation Software
Rehearse Your Delivery
Delivering Your Presentation
Cultivate the Human Landscape
Keep Your Listeners Oriented
Manage Your Visuals
Guidelines for Presenting Visuals
Manage Your Presentation Style
Manage Your Speaking Situation
Guidelines for Managing Listener Questions
Consider This: Cross-Cultural Audiences May Have Specific Expectations
EXERCISES
A QUICK GUIDE TO DOCUMENTATION
Taking Notes
Quoting the Work of Others
Paraphrasing the Work of Others
What You Should Document
How You Should Document
MLA Documentation Style
MLA Parenthetical References
MLA Works Cited Entries
Index to Sample MLA Works Cited Entries
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: MLA Works Cited Page
APA Documentation Style
APA Parenthetical References
APA Reference List Entries
Index to Sample APA Reference Entries
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: APA Reference List
CSE and Other Numbered Documentation Styles
CSE Numbered Citations
Index to Sample CSE Entries
A QUICK GUIDE TO GRAMMAR, USAGE, AND MECHANICS
Common Sentence Errors
Effective Punctuation
Mechanics
A CASEBOOK: THE WRITING PROCESS ILLUSTRATED
Critical Thinking in the Writing Process
Case #1: An Everyday Writing Situation: The Evolution of a Short Report
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: A Final Draft Report: October Management Training Program Evaluation and Recommendations
Case #2: Preparing a Personal Statement in an Internship or Fellowship Application
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Early Draft: Personal Statement for a Marine Biology Internship
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Final Draft: Personal Statement for a Marine Biology Internship
Case #3: Documents for the Course Project: A Sequence Culminating in the Final Report
The Project Documents
The Proposal Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Proposal: Studying Ways to Improve Quality Control at Megacrunch
The Progress Report Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Progress Report
The Final Report Stage
SAMPLE DOCUMENT: Final Report
Additional Documents: A Personal Statement to Accompany an Application to Medical School; A Personal Statement to Accompany an Application to Law School