Rule-based writing - english for non-native writers

With their guidelines „English for Non-Native Writers,“ tekom bridges a gap that many writers and editors have complained about. The guidelines consolidate the most essential standards and rules for technical writing in English. They also offer important suggestions on writing for limited space, such as information products on mobile end-devices. However, the guidelines are more than just another rulebook for technical English, as they concentrate in particular on the needs of authors who must write in English as a foreign language. The guidelines not only can be used as a basic set of rules for all everyday editing, but can also be expanded as required. The guidelines offer precise rules in the areas of: (a) Text, e. g. headings, index entries, cross-references, glossaries; (b) Sentences, e. g. punctuation, verb tenses, word order; and (c) Word usage, e. g. prepositions, articles, and dealing with abbreviations. Every rule contains a brief explanation, comprehensive information on and decision guides for implementing each rule, several negative and positive examples and an estimation of the feasibility of automated proofing using language software. This way, each rule can be integrated into existing editing guidelines or used as a basis for introducing editing software. The guidelines are also supplemented by useful background material: A step-by-step guide makes important project suggestions for introducing a workplace to rule-based writing. The guidelines would thus be an ideal companion to the tekom study „Successful Terminology Management in Companies“. An extensive glossary with essential grammatical terms as well as a detailed index assist in navigating the volume. As a result, the guidelines are well-suited both as a working basis for individual study and as foundational material for introducing language rules in a business.