Adapting your work.
WHAT CHANGES BETWEEN AUDIENCES
Assumed knowledge Vocabulary Level of detail What must be explained What matters to them
WHAT DOES NOT CHANGE
The facts.
WHAT AN ACADEMIC AUDIENCE EXPECTS
Engagement with the literature Method described fully Precision and qualification
WHAT A PROFESSIONAL AUDIENCE EXPECTS
The conclusion first Implications for their decisions Brevity
WHAT A GENERAL AUDIENCE NEEDS
Technical terms explained Context Why it matters to them
WHAT TO DO WHEN WRITING FOR A NON-SPECIALIST
Explain without condescending.
HOW
Assume intelligence, not knowledge.
WHAT TO AVOID
Simplifying to the point of inaccuracy Retaining jargon out of habit Assuming interest you have not established
WHAT TO ASK BEFORE WRITING ANYTHING
Who reads this, and what do they need to do with it?
WHAT TO ADJUST FIRST
Where the conclusion sits.
WHY
Academic writing builds to it. Professional writing begins with it.
