Structuring and Evaluating Scitech Communications
http://baywood.metapress.com/link.asp?target=contribution&id=5TUTYQ8963G04M91
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  peer-reviewed

Mandersloot, Wim G. B. and Clive G. Bruckmann
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
2000

Abstract:

The basis for effective scitech communications is formed by: focusing on the needs of the audience; structuring the substantive and language content accordingly; concentrating on accuracy, clarity and brevity; meeting logical requirements; and presenting in a communicative style and layout, including the use of visuals. In many scitech communications, the Appendix is the right place for detail not of immediate interest to most readers; this option is grossly under-utilized.