7   Writing Style

Level of Detail

Match the amount of detail with the needs of your readers. Novices will need lots of detailed information since they are unfamiliar with the topic, while experts may only need general guidance. Providing just the right amount of information will have a significant effect on the success or failure of your manual.

Obviously, to determine the appropriate level of detail, you have to know precisely who your readers are. Having multiple audiences—such as both novices and experts—will complicate this issue and may result in you providing either too much information or not enough.