Chapter 4. Online Writing Style

Online writing presents special challenges for writers. Online documents have characteristics that distinguish them from their printed counterparts. For example, online documents have the capability of linking to related information. However, they also have screens that are less easily read than printed pages. Because readers can view only one window of text at a time, they cannot easily visualize the size or complexity of an online document.

When writing for online presentation, you must provide context for your readers to avoid disorientation. You also must balance the reader’s dislike of scrolling and excessive linking with the need to provide sufficient and relevant information.

This chapter discusses the following ...

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