The Technical Writer-Readability Formulas and the Nontechnical Reader

Abstract

This article examines currently popular technical editorial practices in the preparation of communications directed at nontechnical readers. In light of these practices it presents source materials for reviewing readability research on available formulas and procedures, explaining their development, and demonstrating some of the benefits and pitfalls for editors and writers directing technical materials to the nontechnical reader. Concluding, the writer suggests that theoretical readability formula research become part of the corpus of information presented at pre- and in-service training programs for technical writers.