Defining Terms

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Defining Terms

• Writing for the Web

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Contents

• Definitions
• Glossary

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Definitions
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Types of Definitions Informal

• Informal synonym, simpler word or phrase
• Example The CPU, or Central Processing Unit,
  tells ...

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Types of Definitions Formal

• Formal definition
• CLASS DIFFERENTIA (how it differs from other
  items in the class)

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Ways to Signal a Simple Definition

• Signal words is, refers to, is called, or
• ( ) parentheses
• -- dashes

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Ways to Signal a Simple Definition

• , , clause
• Bold
• Italics

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How Often to Define

• Define the term the first time it appears on a
  page.
• For long Web pages, define terms at the beginning
  of the page or link to a glossary.

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Errors in Writing Definitions

• Circular definitions
• Terms more difficult than the original word
• Use of is when
• Being too narrow or too broad

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Places to Put Definitions

• In text itself when central to your discussion
• In sidebar or shaded box
• In frame
• At end of page
• In separate window
• In glossary

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Glossary
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Linking to Glossary

• Links to glossary within text
• Glossary link on navigation bar

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Sample Links to Definitions
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Glossary With Internal Links
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Glossary With Frames
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