Technical Editing/Grammar Assignment

Question

Hi, all! I'm very new to this site, but I like it so far. I've poked around the forums a bit and I think you can help me. I am in a technical editing class that I absolutely adore (grammar is my first love) and two friends and I are currently working on a presentation for the class.

We've decided to look at the role of grammar in technical editing, and how the use of technology may be affecting it. (Our thesis: When looking at the impact grammar has on technical editing a look at past problems, common issues, and finding a commonality between the two [technical editing and grammar] has to be examined.)

The bit they've asked me to research is the "commonality" of grammar. So my question to you is this: what is the "commonality", how would you describe it, and where do you suggest I look for more information?

Thanks in advance!

~~Nao

Goodman · Accepted Answer

Hello Naomi,

Welcome to the EF. You post caught my interest because you mentioned technical editing, which is a rather intriguing term. What is the context specificity you have in mind?

<<The bit they've asked me to research is the "commonality" of grammar.>>

I don’t know exactly what you meant by "commonality" of grammar; so I don’t know how to respond to it.

<<We've decided to look at the role of grammar in technical editing, and how the use of technology may be affecting it. (Our thesis: When looking at the impact grammar has on technical editing a look at past problems, common issues, and finding a commonality between the two [technical editing and grammar] has to be examined.) >>

This is rather abstract. I like to pitch in my 2 cents, but I couldn’t be sure of your questions. But I will offer this.

If it’s specification of an equipment, it’s less demanding. If it’s the operation of a machine or instruction of some kind, grammar must be correct in order to be clear and make sense to the readers.

If it’s a technical publication or thesis, grammar is absolutely paramount.

I do technical writing in the semiconductor industry for many years. It depends on what the material is that you are writing. Some are more critical on grammar than others.

Technical Editing/Grammar Assignment

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