Mystery Audience
While we all know that audience is important, I am going to have to say it again. Your audience is important! The context of how an instruction manual will used is important to know before writing. We must know how to introduce the parts that are explained in the instructions.
Is the audience you are addressing mainly mechanics or skilled knitters? Or are you talking with a single mom, a sports fanatic or history buff? Imagine who might buy your product; then ask yourself whether they have previous knowledge of your product or similar products. Your audience will respond well to your writing if you do your very best to respect them.
kirkistan
pottergreenleaf
Rachelk
KaylaRose
jmmonson
mythseeker
meaganlinn
thoughtsbyh
saavvyscribbler
elizabethreid521
kahreha
ruinationmaster
joknoop
mikepchambers
majesticpyre
I think that this concept is a really important one to continue to drill into our heads…Professional writing is always going to be about the audience, regardless of what we are writing. I like what you said about respecting the audience. I have often been very frustrated by confusing instructions, and if I find a company that seems to serve their customer well I will buy more of their products. There are even certain companies that I don’t like buying stuff from because I know that I will have the hardest time putting it all together. Not only acknowledging our audience, but also respecting them seems to be key!