TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Microsoft Style Guide From:"Dennis V. Callaghan" <dcallaghan -at- SUNGARD -dot- COM> Date:Wed, 6 Nov 1996 09:24:01 EST
Colleagues,
I just received a brochure, as I'm sure many of you out there did as
well, listing a number of books available in technical writing and
other related topics. One of these is the "Microsoft Manual of Style
for Technical Publications". I have seen this book referenced on this
list before. My question is, has it become the definitive style guide
for software/computer documentation, similar to the AP style book for
journalists? Is there a movement within the field to make it as such?
Hiring managers, is knowledge of Microsoft style something you look
for in applicants? Furthermore, is it worth $25 for my own personal
copy or does it cover mostly common sense grammatical stuff?
Any advice any of you can share would be appreciated. I'd also like to
hear from people who's departments have their own style guides, either
based on Microsoft's or totally distinct from it. Thanks.
- Dennis Callaghan
SunGard Capital Markets Inc.
Philadelphia, Pa.
dcallaghan -at- sungard -dot- com
