What is ISO 12173:2018?

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops and publishes international standards. One such standard related to technical writing is ISO 12173:2018. This standard provides guidelines for writing professional technical articles.

The Purpose of ISO 12173:2018

ISO 12173:2018 aims to establish a set of rules and guidelines to enhance the quality and clarity of technical articles. It helps writers to communicate complex technical information effectively to their target audience. It ensures consistency in style, structure, and terminology, making it easier for readers to understand the content.

Key Elements of ISO 12173:2018

The standard covers various aspects of technical writing, including:

Structure: It defines the appropriate structure of a technical article, such as introduction, main body, conclusion, and references.

Language and Style: It provides guidance on the use of clear, concise, and plain language. Technical jargon should be avoided or clearly defined.

Figures and Tables: It offers instructions on how to create effective figures and tables, ensuring they are referenced correctly within the text.

References and Citations: It outlines the proper format for citing sources and references, promoting accuracy and credibility of the article.

Benefits of Following ISO 12173:2018

Complying with ISO 12173:2018 has several advantages for technical writers:

Improved Clarity: By following established guidelines, technical articles become clearer and easier to understand, reducing confusion for readers.

Consistency: Consistent formatting, style, and terminology make it effortless for readers to consume technical information across various articles.

Enhanced Credibility: Using proper references and citations adds credibility to the article, making it more reliable for readers and experts in the field.

Efficient Communication: Structured articles allow writers to present their ideas coherently, ensuring that key information is conveyed efficiently.

In conclusion, ISO 12173:2018 provides valuable guidelines for writing professional technical articles. Following these standards improves the clarity, consistency, and credibility of technical writing. By adhering to this standard, technical writers can effectively communicate complex information to their target audience.