Technical Writing Rules 3

Question 1

When should a technical writer use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Accepted Answer

To join two independent clauses without a conjunction

Answer

A semicolon joins two closely related independent clauses that could each stand alone as sentences.

Question 2

Which rule applies to the use of acronyms on first use in a technical document?

Accepted Answer

Spell out the full term followed by the acronym in parentheses

Answer

Standard practice is to write the full term at first use, immediately followed by the acronym in parentheses, then use the acronym thereafter.

Question 3

What is the correct rule for writing numbers in technical prose?

Accepted Answer

Spell out numbers one through nine; use numerals for 10 and above

Answer

Most technical style guides (e.g., APA, Chicago) spell out single-digit numbers and use numerals for 10 and higher in running text.

Question 4

The rule of parallel structure in technical writing requires that:

Accepted Answer

Items in a list or series use the same grammatical form

Answer

Parallel structure means matching grammatical forms (e.g., all gerunds, all noun phrases) across list items, headings, or coordinated clauses.

Question 5

Which rule governs the placement of a modifier in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

A modifier should be placed as close as possible to the word it modifies

Answer

Misplaced modifiers create ambiguity; placing them adjacent to the word they modify ensures clear meaning.

Technical Writing Practice Test