Technical Writing Best Practices for Engineers

Chapter 2 · Practice 4 of 4

Cut extra words and turn "or" chains into lists

From Write clear sentences

Why it matters

Google's short sentences guidance suggests that when you see "or" in a long sentence, consider refactoring it into a bulleted list. Lists make options and steps scannable.

Before:

After:

Also cut filler such as "in order to" (use "to"), "it should be noted that" (delete) and "basically" (delete).

Do

  • Use numbered lists for steps or priority
  • Use bullets for unordered options

Avoid

  • Paragraphs that hide a list of options inside one sentence