Technical Descriptions What is a technical description Technical

Technical Descriptions

What is a technical description? Technical descriptions are verbal and visual representations of objects, mechanisms, and processes. These objects, mechanisms, and processes are broken down into their parts or stages in order to fully explain how they function.

Introducing a Technical Description The introduction should set up the context for the rest of the document, offering an overall look at the product or process you are describing.

Introducing a Technical Description Include a one-sentence definition of your subject as the first sentence. A citizens’ band (CB) radio is a system of short-distance radio communications between individuals on a selection of 40 channels. The stand-up Jet Ski is a one-person recreational watercraft on which the rider stands while operating.

Introducing a Technical Description Include a purpose statement that directly or indirectly conveys that you are describing something. Use this document to familiarize yourself with the features and functions of the Taser, so you can confidently use it in the field. This informational sheet will describe the unique aspects of plant cells as well as how they undergo the process of mitosis.

Introducing a Technical Description Include a sentence or two that stresses the importance of your subject. As chemical engineering students, you will come across a steam surface condenser at some point in your studies. Therefore, understanding its basic operations is essential to your success in the program. An initial understanding of wind turbines is necessary because your new work will involve wind energy terminology and systems.

Example Introduction The SMART Board 600 i is one model in a series of interactive classroom whiteboards that features touch detection for user input. A projector is used to display a computer's video output on the interactive whiteboard, which then acts as a large touch screen that the teacher can manipulate. Students can also interact with the whiteboard from their desks by using remote controls. In recent years, the SMART Board has positively changed the ways in which you and your students can interact with each other in the classroom. This document explains the features, functions, and benefits of the SMART Board 600 i, so you can fully understand the capabilities of this cutting-edge teaching technology.

Arranging a Technical Description By Feature Separately describe parts or features By Function Separately describe functions By Stage Partition the subject chronologically

Keeping Your Language Visual Sensory Detail • How does it look, feel, smell? • Shape? Texture? Color? Simile • “A is like B” • The base of the structure is shaped like a large cube. Analogy • “A is to B as C is to D” • Circuits on a semiconductor wafer are like tiny interconnected roads crisscrossing a city’s downtown. Metaphor • “A is B” • The heart is a pump that pushes fluids through a circulation system of pipes called arteries and veins.

In-Class Activity: Writing A Description Working with your group, compose a simple technical description of the item assigned to you. Your description should be logically arranged and should include: • An introduction that contextualizes and defines the item • An image or sketch of the item with labeled parts • A description of each labeled part