What is EN ISO 15513:2019?

EN ISO 15513:2019 is a technical standard that provides guidelines and requirements for writing easy-to-understand technical articles. It is essential for authors, especially those in scientific and engineering fields, to communicate complex ideas and concepts effectively to a wider audience.

The Importance of Easy-to-Understand Technical Writing

Technical writing plays a crucial role in sharing knowledge and advancing research. However, many technical documents are often filled with jargon, convoluted sentences, and complex terminology, making it challenging for non-experts to grasp the information. Easy-to-understand technical writing ensures that the content can be comprehended by a broader audience, promoting accessibility and inclusion.

Guidelines for Writing Easy-to-Understand Technical Articles

To adhere to the EN ISO 15513:2019 standard, authors should follow certain guidelines when crafting their technical articles:

Use Plain Language: Avoid excessive technical jargon and use simple, everyday language as much as possible. Define any necessary technical terms and provide clear explanations.

Organize Information: Structure your article in a logical manner, using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break up the content. This helps readers navigate through the material easily.

Provide Visual Aids: Incorporate visuals such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations to enhance understanding. Visual aids can visually represent complex information in a more accessible format.

Consider Different Learning Styles: People learn in different ways, so use various techniques to cater to different learning styles. For example, include both visual and textual explanations to accommodate both visual and verbal learners.

Proofread and Edit: Thoroughly review your article for clarity and readability. Eliminate unnecessary jargon, simplify sentences, and ensure a smooth flow of ideas. Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or experts in the field.

The Benefits of Easy-to-Understand Technical Writing

Easy-to-understand technical writing offers numerous advantages:

Increased Accessibility: By using simple language and clear explanations, technical articles become accessible to a wider range of readers, including non-experts and those with limited technical knowledge.

Enhanced Knowledge Transfer: Easy-to-understand writing promotes effective knowledge transfer. Researchers and professionals can share their expertise and findings with a broader audience, driving innovation and collaboration across various fields.

Better User Experience: When users can easily understand technical instructions, manuals, or guides, they are more likely to use products correctly and experience fewer issues. This leads to higher customer satisfaction and success in product implementation.

Improved Learning and Education: Students and aspiring professionals benefit from easy-to-understand technical writing as it aids in learning complex concepts and subjects. It facilitates self-study and supports educational efforts.

Effective Communication: Clear and concise technical writing enables effective communication between experts and non-experts. It bridges the gap between specialized knowledge and practical application.

By embracing the principles outlined in EN ISO 15513:2019, authors can create technical articles that are more accessible, informative, and user-friendly. Easy-to-understand technical writing not only benefits the readers but also promotes knowledge dissemination and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration.