Simplified English - Specification Structure

Specification Structure

The Simplified Technical English specification consists of two Parts--Part 1: Writing Rules and Part 2: Dictionary. The Writing Rules specify restrictions on grammar and style usage. For example, they require writers to:

• Restrict the length of noun clusters to no more than 3 words
• Restrict sentence length to no more than 20 words (procedural sentences) or 25 words (descriptive sentences)
• Restrict paragraphs to no more than 6 sentences (in descriptive text)
• Avoid slang and jargon while allowing for specific terminology
• Make instructions as specific as possible
• Use articles such as "a/an" and "the" wherever possible
• Use simple verb tenses (past, present, and future)
• Use active voice
• Not use present participles or gerunds (unless part of a Technical Name)
• Write sequential steps as separate sentences
• Put commands first in warnings and cautions, with the exception of conditions