Writing Lesson: Structure Sentences for Clarity

Compare the sentence above to the sentence below. Which one would you rather rely on to get your job done?

The database is updated periodically.

If you chose the second sentence, you must be psychic because the writer left out so much information.

• Technical writers write for people who are trying to accomplish business or technical tasks.
• Make sentences clear, concise, and accurate.
• Make responsibility for actions and relationships clear and explicit.
• Make related conditions explicit.