Your Take on Technical Communications

Based on my experience and knowledge, I have always been instructed to never use the word(s) being defined within the definition for the said word(s). Is this an incorrect assumption when it comes to technical communications? Also, I realize the scope of this course is limited to the manner in which information is effectively communicated in the workplace, however, I believe that technical communication is much broader than corporate dialogue. Again, am I …

…are tons of "For Dummy" books available on almost any subject. These books outline the technicalities, or "technique" if you will, associated with subjects ranging from cooking to changing tires along the side of a highway. Characteristics I associate with technical communication are clear and concise wording; logical and natural flow of information; utilization of charts, graphs and pictures to make a point understandable; using step-by-step instructions; outline formatting; and bold type facing. Nathan Mizzell