Organizing the Document

Worksheet Description

This worksheet focuses on the planning stage of creating a technical document. It guides students through the process of analyzing the document’s objective and determining the best organizational structure based on the document type, content, audience needs, and objectives. The worksheet asks four questions aimed at identifying the nature of the document, any specific conventions it should follow, insights from similar documents, and how the document’s objective influences its structure. This structured inquiry sets the groundwork for effective document organization.

The worksheet educates students on the importance of tailoring the organization of a technical document to its specific purpose and audience. It teaches them to be mindful of the conventions and expectations associated with different types of documents. By comparing various documents, students learn to discern effective organizational strategies and consider how they can apply these strategies to their own work. The goal is to help students develop a clear, logical framework for their technical writing, ensuring that the end product is both professional and fit for purpose.