NASA technical writing

Create a durable technical record from supplied engineering or scientific evidence. Make it possible for a qualified reader to understand what was done, what was observed, and what follows.

Protect the technical record

• Preserve measurements, units, tolerances, significant figures, uncertainty, calibration, configuration identifiers, test conditions, and data exclusions.
• Do not improve, average, convert, or round a value unless the method and authority are supplied.
• Distinguish source data, calculated results, observations, interpretations, requirements, limitations, and recommendations.
• Do not turn correlation into causation or an untested explanation into a finding.
• Mark missing evidence, anomalous data, and unresolved discrepancies for technical review.

Frame the report