Definitions are a basic part of technical writing. In fact, most technical writing is a kind of definition

	Software documentation is a definition of the software.
	A report on soil run off is a definition.
	A manual on how to use spectrometer is a definition.

Here are some basic ideas on definition:

	Most technical writing involves definition in some form.
	Jargon turns readers off (unless they know what it means).
	Readers need to know how you are using terms. Definitions assure readers you and they understand the term in the same way. Definitions clarify terms for the general audience. Definitions define terms for contractual purposes.

	Analyze / know your readers’ level of expertise
	Meet your readers’ needs.
	Define terms as needed (consider your purpose).

1. Meet your readers’ needs: right level of technicality.

2. Use plain English.

   Lower the level of technicality. (Don’t use jargon to define jargon.)

3. Explain the basic properties:

   	function  what it does how it works
   	form what it looks like what are the parts

4. Be objective.

5. Be accurate

Parenthetical (part of a sentence) Example: Larch, larix laricina occidentalli, is a species commonly occurring in North Idaho. a deciduous conifer, a cone bearing tree that looses its needles,