Technical Writing: A Guide to EN 51734-2010

In the world of technical writing, standards play a crucial role in ensuring clarity, consistency, and accuracy. One of these fundamental standards is EN 51734-2010, which provides guidelines for writing professional and effective technical articles. This article aims to explain what EN 51734-2010 entails and how it can be applied to enhance your technical writing skills.

Understanding EN 51734-2010

EN 51734-2010 is a standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) that specifically addresses the requirements for writing professional technical articles. It emphasizes the importance of clear and concise communication, proper use of language, formatting, and referencing within technical documents.

This standard is applicable to various industries and disciplines, including engineering, technology, science, and research. By adhering to EN 51734-2010, technical writers can ensure that their articles are organized, informative, and comply with industry best practices.

Key Principles of EN 51734-2010

1. Clarity and Precision: Technical articles should be written in a clear and precise manner to facilitate understanding. Avoid using jargon or complex terminology unless necessary. Clearly define any technical terms used and provide sufficient explanations where needed.

2. Structure and Organization: A well-structured article enhances readability. Divide your content into sections and subsections with informative headings. Use bullet points or numbered lists to present information logically. Maintain a consistent flow throughout the document.

3. Language and Tone: Choose appropriate language and tone for your target audience. Use a formal tone, but avoid being overly technical or unfamiliar to readers who may not have expert knowledge in the subject matter. Strike a balance between being informative and engaging.

4. Citations and Referencing: Give credit to the original sources of information and refer to established publications whenever possible. Follow proper citation styles, such as APA or MLA, to ensure accuracy and credibility in your references. Plagiarism should be strictly avoided.

Applying EN 51734-2010

To that adheres to EN 51734-2010, consider following these steps:

1. Research and Plan: Gather all necessary information about the topic. Develop a clear outline of the article, including sections, headings, and key points to cover. This will help ensure you stay focused and organized throughout the writing process.

2. Write and Revise: Begin writing your article, paying attention to the principles outlined in EN 51734-2010. Write in a concise and coherent manner, using appropriate language and tone. After completing the draft, revise it multiple times for clarity, coherence, and correctness.

3. Edit and Proofread: Carefully edit your article for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors. Double-check the accuracy of your facts, figures, and references. It is recommended to have someone else review your article for an objective perspective.

4. Review and Finalize: Review your article one final time to ensure it meets the requirements set by EN 51734-2010. Check if the structure, language, and referencing are consistent with the standard. Make any necessary adjustments and proceed to finalize your article for publishing or submission.

By following the guidelines provided by EN 51734-2010, technical writers can elevate the quality and professionalism of their articles. Incorporating these principles into your writing process will not only benefit the readers but also establish your credibility as a knowledgeable and competent technical writer.