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Writing Style
Standards for voice, tone, structure, and formatting in technical documentation.
Core Principles
Use active voice
❌ DON'T use passive voice
The configuration file should be updated to include the new API key.
✅ DO use active voice
Update the configuration file to include the new API key.
Be concise
❌ DON'T use unnecessary words
In order to successfully complete the installation process...
✅ DO be direct
To install...
Use parallel structure
❌ DON'T mix structures
The system handles authentication, validates input, and to process payments.
✅ DO use parallel structure
The system authenticates users, validates input, and processes payments.
Lead with the point
❌ DON'T bury the lede
Over the past decade, remote work has transformed how teams collaborate. Companies have experimented... [finally the point]
✅ DO state the point first
Remote work succeeds when teams establish clear communication rhythms. Here's how...
Formatting Standards
- Use proper heading hierarchy
- Use sentence case for headings