Notes Midterm English 102

The Language of Technical Writing - Technical Writing is easily

distinguished from the other types of writing because of its language.
Practice Conciseness - Conciseness which means expressing oneself in
the fewest number of words at the same time retaining completeness.

 Shortening word/phases
 Wordy phrases afford the opportunity along the lines additional
 Shortened form permit like another.

USE non-sexist of instead of sexist language by expressing yourself

in the following ways:
Using plural pronouns instead of single pronoun Do not say:
-The technical must show his I.D cards to the guard.
-Each reporter should submit his monthly report on time.

Instead Say:
-The technicians have to show their I.D cards to the guard.
-Reporter should submit their work on time.

Avoid using words that explicitly favor one gender.

Do not say: Say:
-Businessman - Business person
-Chairman -Chairperson
-Craftsman -Artist, crafts person
-Layman -Layperson
-Manpower -Personnel

Avoid using jargons, gobbledygook, horse-buggy, or verbal dead

words.

Jargons are technical are technical terms commonly used by people belongings to the same field
of professions.
The Technical Writing Process –

Writing Stages

 Pre – Writing Stage

 Drafting Or Writing
 Posting Writing Stage

Considerations

1. Purpose
2. Subject Matter
3. Content
4. Readers

Sub-Processes of Stage 3.
 Revising
 Editing
 Proofreading
Technical Writing Technique No. 1
The main goal of technical writing is to impart information to the reader. As such,
the intended outcome of a technical document is the impact the writer wants the
document to have on the user.

Model Presentation and Analysis

1.FORMAL DEFINITION - modern is a device that changes the form of data so

that another media can transmit them.

2.INFORMAL DEFINITION - Radar: an acronym for radio detection and range;

a de terminong factor in anti-aircraft defense system

Hub-bub: a noisy, confused mingling of sounds.

Snarling iron: a long-beaked tool used in embossing metal.

3. EXPANDED , EXTENDED , or AMPLIFIED DEFINITION

A. Etymological definition
B. Historical definition
C. Negation or Elimination
D. Operating Principle
E. Comparison-Contrast
F. Use of Examples
G. Analysis by Partitioning
H. Explication
I. Stipulative Definition

4. COMBINED DEFINITION
- Communication is a method of exchanging ideas or information with one another .
 TEXTUAL READING
DEFINITION

Definition is a way of giving or explaining the meaning of an abstract term or a concept.

IMPORTANCE OF DEFINITION

1. It gives the reader a clearer and easier understanding of the concept or idea enough to
encourage him to read continuously till the end of the text.
2. It explains ideas or concepts behind various innovations, methods, and techniques in the field
of technology.
3.It lessens the gap between technological experts or “high-tech” people and “low-tech” people.
4. It frees a person from any confusion, or wrong understanding of a term.
5. It helps a company member do his job more efficiently towards a certain goal.
6. It makes any technical written work readable to all kinds of audiences of readers.

PLACEMENT OF DEFINITION IN THE TEXT

Where in your technical report should you specifically place your definition or terms? The
location of Definition is based on

(1) the nature of the audience or readers.

(2) length of the definition
(3) the purpose and layout; and
(4) the agreed rules and practices in an area of discipline.
 Types of Definition
1.INFORMAL DEFINITION
-This type of definition is also called a parenthetical definition or an in-text definition.

Examples:
DASH, PARENTHESES, COMMA

2.FORMAL DEFINITION
-The other names given to this type of definition are: Aristotelian and one-sentence logical
definition.

3. EXTENDED, EXPANDED, OR AMLIFIED DEFINITION

This type of definition goes beyond the sentential level.

a. ETYMOLOGY OR WORD DERIVATION - The definition gives the origin of the term based
on the country that first introduced the term to the world.

b. HISTORICAL DEFINITION - Focuses on the linguistic origin or background knowledge of

the syllables and roots of words.

c. NEGATION OR ELIMINATION - This kind of extended definition are those aspects,

elements, or properties of the term or concepts that don’t contribute to the existence of such term.

d. OPERATING PRINCIPLE - this type of amplified definition is the process involved in the
production or creation of the thing referred to by the term being defined.

e. COMPARISON-CONTRAST - This kind of definition makes you extend your explanation of

a concept or a thing by pointing out how such thing or concept is similar to or different from
other concepts.
f. ANALYSIS BY PARTITIONING - a clearer picture of the concept or the thing is given by
examining and explaining the nature, characteristic , and function of each component or part of a
thing.

g. USE OF EXAMPLES - determines the meaning of a term or a concept by means of this type
of amplified definition is how this concept applies to another concept or how one uses it in a
certain situation.

h. EXPLICATION - not all words in the definition sound familiar to readers. The sentences
following the preceding one that uses difficult expressions have the function of unlocking the
difficulties in the preceding sentence.
i. OPERATIONAL DEFINITION - In giving a concept or a term its operational definition, you
explain the indispensable function or use of this thing in the process, project, or activity .

j. STIPULATIVE DEFINITION - Another way to extend the definition of a term is to explain

this word based on a special condition, a particular purpose, a requirement or a limitation
affecting any agreement between or among people.

CHAPTER 5 Technical Writing Technique No. 2

DESCRIPTION OF MECHANISM

DESCRIPTION OF MECHANISM
 A mechanism is any device made up of components that systematically work together to
accomplish a certain purpose.
 Describing mechanism requires you to give visual or mental pictures of a mechanism in a
sequential manner.
 After defining the mechanism in several ways, describe its general appearance or overall
picture that has something to do with its quantifiable, sensory, and spatial characteristics
like its size, shape, weight, height, texture, color, length, width, taste, sound, state,
ingredients, density, dimensions, materials used, and so on
 The final part of your introductory paragraph enumerates all the major or principal parts
of the mechanism which the succeeding paragraph ought to describe one by one or part-
by-part.
 Ending your paragraph-length introduction in this manner does not only help your readers
visualize an overview or holistic picture of mechanism, but also shows your organized
way of presenting forthcoming ideas.

FIRST MAJOR PART

 Formal Definition
 Extended Definition
 General Appearance Enumeration of Sub-part
 Enumeration of Sub-part

SECOND MAJOR PART

  Formal Definition
 Extended Definition
 General Appearance
 Enumeration of Sub-parts

GUIDELINES FOR TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

 Start describing the mechanism by presenting an entire view of the object.
 Show the relationship of the components of the mechanism by putting each part under a
category.
 Describe each element of a bigger part in this manner:

a. Stress the distinguishing feature or property of each subpart

b. Explain its exception clearly from the other parts.

c. Probe or conduct a thorough examination on every observable constituent element of a subpart

2 GUIDELINES FOR TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
d. Emphasize what a particular part or subpart does for the whole mechanism, rather than what it
is in relation to the device.

e. Help the reader form a clear image of the subject by using concrete, specific, and informative
language that can activate the reader’s five senses.
f. Be objective in describing. Focus on your sensory experience about the subject.
g. Point out significant things about the subject clearly by using graphics and other visual aids.

TECHNICAL WRITING TECHNIQUE NO.3

DESCRIPTION OF A PROCESS
UNDERSTANDING REDUNDANCY:
Redundancy occurs when words or phrases are repeated unnecessarily, often conveying the
same meaning in different ways. While redundancy may serve to emphasize a point or add
emphasis in some cases, it often leads to verbosity and dilutes the intended message.

EXAMPLES OF REDUNDANT EXPRESSIONS:

"Basic fundamentals"
"Close proximity"
"Final outcome"
"New innovation"
"Past history"
"Free gift"
"Exact same"
"Unexpected surprise"
"Join together"
"End result”

IMPACT ON COMMUNICATION:
Redundant expressions can obscure the intended meaning, causing confusion or ambiguity for
the reader or listener.

STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT:

Edit and revise: Review written content to identify and eliminate redundant expressions. Strive
for clarity and conciseness by removing unnecessary words.
Expand vocabulary: Instead of relying on redundant phrases, seek out precise and varied
vocabulary to convey meaning more effectively.
 Practice mindfulness: Be mindful of speech patterns and habits, actively working to avoid
redundancy in everyday communication. Seek feedback: Solicit feedback from peers or mentors
to identify instances of redundancy and areas for improvement.

TEXTUAL READING: DESCRIPTION OF A PROCESS

TYPES OF PROCESS
How it operates or how it works process - This process description emphasizes how things
function rather than who operates them. It suggests using present-tense verbs to describe the
operation of mechanisms like vacuum cleaners, washing machines, or lawn mowers.
How to do it process - This process type highlights the human action or the doer rather than the
process itself. It's commonly found in giving instructions or directions for operating a
mechanism or device, such as in a manual.
How it happens process - The third type of process analysis, also known as Process Analysis,
shifts focus to the process itself rather than the user or machine operation. It's subject-oriented
and considers time as a primary element. Examples include natural phenomena like earthquakes,
the water cycle, and human processes like reading comprehension and cooking. This type of
description often uses sentences in the active-indicative mood, drawing on the psychological
processes of sensation and perception.
How its organized process - Describing processes also applies to how clubs, organizations, or
businesses assign roles to members. This type of process explains how individuals assume
positions within the entity. In technical writing, the first three process types are more common
than the fourth. Regardless of size or placement within a document, effective process
descriptions start with understanding the audience and purpose.

PARTS OF A PROCESS DESCRIPTON

The introductory part of a process description typically concludes with an overview of the major
steps involved, although it's not essential to list every single step. Six key steps, presented in
chronological order, suffice for this purpose. The paragraph should apply chronological
organization, with commonly used transitional devices such as "first, " "next, " "then, "
"afterwards, " and "finally" to guide the reader through the process smoothly.

LANGUAGE FOCUS: PARALLELISM

UNDERSTANDING PARALLELISM:
At its core, parallelism emphasizes consistency in grammatical structure, particularly in lists,
comparisons, and correlative constructions. Whether using nouns, verbs, adjectives, or phrases,
maintaining parallel structure ensures uniformity and facilitates comprehension.
APPLICATION IN WRITING:
In literature, parallelism adds depth and resonance to prose and poetry alike. Writers employ
parallel structure to underscore themes, evoke emotions, and emphasize key points. By aligning
syntactic elements, they create memorable passages that resonate with readers.
IMPORTANCE IN RHETORIC:
Parallelism plays a pivotal role in rhetoric, elevating the persuasiveness and impact of speeches
and persuasive essays. Politicians, activists, and orators harness its power to evoke empathy,
inspire action, and drive their messages home. Through parallelism, they imbue their rhetoric
with cadence and conviction, making it more compelling and memorable.
STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE USAGE:
To leverage parallelism effectively, writers must pay attention to sentence structure, word choice,
and overall coherence. They should strive for symmetry and balance while avoiding monotony or
predictability. Additionally, revising drafts with a focus on parallelism enhances clarity and
readability.

TECHNICAL WRITING TECHNIQUE NO. 4

CLASSIFICATION
It’ s a TECHNICAL WRITING TECHNIQUE that makes you explain a thing by breaking this
thing into categories and explaining each class based on their similarities.
Which requires the presence of these 3 elements.

 G E N U S - THE CLASS TO WHICH T ERM TO BE E X P LAINED BE LONGS OR

THE TOPIC
 B A S I S - THE MAIN REASON OR PRINCIPLE THAT CAUSES THE OBJECT TO
FALL INTO ONE CLASS
 S P E C I E S - (SAME SINGULAR AND PLURAL FORM) THE CLASS MEMBER
HAVING CHARACTERISTICS OR DISTINCTIVE QUALITIES OF ITS OWN

GUIDELINES FOR CLASSIFICAITON-WRITNG TECHNIQUE

1.KNOW YOUR PURPOSE, AUDIENCE, AND TOPIC VERY WELL.
2.DEFINE YOUR TOPIC FIRST IN A ONE-SENTENCE LOGICAL DEFINITION BEFORE
BREAKING IT INTO VARIOUS GROUPS.
3.HAVE A CLEAR AND SPECIFIC BASIS, REASONS, OR GUIDING PRINCIPLE FO
PUTTING SPECIES IN ONE GROUP.
4.USE ONLY ONE BASIS TO EXPLAIN OR JUSTIFY THE PRESENCE OF SPECIES UNDE
ONE GENUS.
5. BASE YOUR GROUPING ON IMPORTANT AND PRACTICAL BASIS.
6.IDENTIFY ALL SPECIES BASED ON ONE GIVEN BASIS OR GUIDING PRINCIPLE.
7.PROVIDE A MINIMUM NUMBER OF TWO CLASSES PER BASIS AND TWO SPECIES
PER GENUS.
8. INCLUDE SPECIES THAT ARE RELEVANT OR APPLICABLE ONLY TO ONE
PARTICULAR GENUS OR CLASS RATHER THAN FOR ALL GENERA.
9. PRESENT ALL CLASSES BASED ON ONE CRITERION OR GUIDING PRINCIPLE BUT
DISCUSS ONLY ONE CLASS FULLY AND THOROUGHLY AT A TIME.
10.EXPLAIN WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT THE TOPIC IN LOGICAL OR AN ORGANIZED
WAY BY STARTING YOUR DISCUSSION FROM ONE GENUS TO THE LAST CLASS.

CHAPTER 8 TECHNICAL WRITING TECHNIQUE NO.5

COMPARISONCONTRAST
WHAAT IS COOMPARISON CONTRATS??
Compare and contrast is a rhetorical style that discusses the similarities and differences.
of two or more things: ideas, concepts, items, places, etc. This rhetorical style is one that you’ll
see often as a complete essay, but you may also use it quite a lot within paragraphs of any kind of
essay in which you need to make some kind of comparison to help illustrate a point.

COMPARISON - Comparison or comparing is the act of evaluating two or more things by

determining the relevant, comparable characteristics of each thing, and then determining which
characteristics of each are similar to the other, which are different, and to what degree. Where
characteristics are different, the differences may then be evaluated to determine which thing is
best suited for a particular purpose. The description of similarities and differences found between
the two things is also called a comparison. Comparison can take many distinct forms, varying by
field.
CONTRAST - Contrast is a rhetorical device used by a writer to emphasis the differences
between two people, places or things. It's the opposition between two objects, with their
differences highlighted. A contrast essay will try to pit the two objects against one another to find
where they differ.

EXAMPLES FOR COMPARISON AND CONTRAST

Sentences that show comparison.
1. Our house is as small as yours.
2. You are smarter than him.
3. Our classroom is wider than your classroom.
4. The Philippines is as beautiful as Thailand.
5. I am not as generous as my grandfather.
Sentences that show contrast.
1. He is thin, but he is strong.
2. He says is thrifty. However, he keeps on buying expensive things.
3. In spite of having a toothache, I enjoyed the film.
4. Despite working hard, John failed the exam.
5. He is fat, but he runs fast

Technical Reports
• A technical report is a written work that present facts, information, and opinion of people
about any subject matter or topic in relation to science, arts, business, technology,
industry, government, law, medicine, agriculture, non-profit organization, and to other
fields of discipline.

Types of Technical Reports

• Progress report - shows progress, development, of a project or an activity at a given
period of time.
• Periodic report – presents information periodically or a certain period of time – daily,
weekly, monthly, or quarterly.
• Conference report – presents information about personal, company sales, and of call
conference between a company and employee or client, such as a phone call between a
collection officer and client.
• Proposal report – offers a solution or a suggestion to a technical problem or a response
to a request from a client.
• Audit report – verifies an accountant’s inspection of a firm’s financial records.
• Feasibility report - recommends correctness of decisions or actions based on technical
and economic analysis.
• Trip reports – discusses events and accomplishments of business trip.
• Recommendation report – persuades the reader to act favorably on one’s offer or
request.
• Laboratory report – describes the ways people do things inside the laboratory with
emphasis on the instruments and equipment involved in the work.
• Accident report – records hat who, what, where, and when of an unexpected event or
happening that may result in an injury or damage.
• Personnel evaluation report - evaluates past performances of employees for
improvement purposes.
• SPECS ( Specification ) – communicates needs of a client to a supplier of goods.