What is EN ISO 11066:2014?

EN ISO 11066:2014 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for writing thorough and comprehensive technical articles. It covers various aspects of technical writing, including structure, content, language, and formatting. This article aims to explore the key points of this standard and offer insights into how it can be applied in creating effective technical articles.

The Structure of EN ISO 11066:2014

EN ISO 11066:2014 emphasizes the importance of a well-structured article. It suggests that a technical article should typically consist of the following sections:

Introduction: This section presents the context and purpose of the article, outlining the problem being addressed or the area of focus.

Methods: Here, the article describes the approach or methodology used in conducting any experiments, data collection, or analysis.

Results: This section presents the findings of the study or experiment, typically using graphs, tables, or other visual aids to support the information.

Discussion: The article then interprets the results and provides an analysis, explaining their significance and implications.

Conclusion: Finally, a concise summary of the main points is provided, emphasizing the key takeaways or recommendations.

Content Guidelines

EN ISO 11066:2014 also highlights the importance of clear and concise content. Technical articles should aim to convey complex information in a manner that is easily understood by the intended audience. Some key content guidelines include:

Define terminology: Clearly explain any technical terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to the reader.

Provide examples: Use specific examples or case studies to illustrate your points and make the content more relatable.

Cite references: When making claims or presenting data, provide proper citations for the sources used to ensure credibility and facilitate further research.

Frequently review and revise: Technical articles should be periodically reviewed and updated to reflect new information or advancements in the field.

Language and Formatting

EN ISO 11066:2014 emphasizes the importance of consistent language and formatting throughout the article. Some key considerations in this regard include:

Clear and concise language: Use plain language whenever possible to improve reader comprehension.

Consistent terminology: Maintain consistency in terminology and abbreviations to avoid confusion.

Logical structure: Ensure a logical flow of information within sections and between different parts of the article.

Visual aids: Utilize charts, graphs, and visual elements to enhance understanding and present complex data in a more digestible format.

Formatting guidelines: Follow any specific formatting guidelines mentioned in the standard, such as font size, line spacing, and referencing style.

In conclusion, EN ISO 11066:2014 provides valuable guidance for technical writers. By following its recommended structure, content guidelines, and language/formatting recommendations, writers can create thorough and effective technical articles that are easily understandable for their target audience.