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Explaining Technical Things to Non-Specialists Print

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Bridging knowledge.

WHAT TO ESTABLISH

What they already know What decision they need to make

WHY THAT SECOND ONE

It determines what they actually need, which is usually far less than everything.

WHAT TO START WITH

The conclusion or implication.

WHY

They need to know why they are listening.

WHAT TO AVOID

Jargon, unless defined Detail that does not affect their decision Condescension

WHAT TO USE

Comparisons to things they know Concrete examples Plain language

WHAT NOT TO DO

Oversimplify to the point of inaccuracy.

HOW TO BALANCE THAT

Say what is true at their level, and note where it is more complicated if it matters.

WHAT TO CHECK

Whether they followed, by asking rather than assuming.

HOW TO ASK

Invite questions specifically, rather than asking whether it made sense.

WHY

People say yes to that question regardless.

WHAT TO PROVIDE

Something written, afterwards.

WHAT TO REMEMBER

Assume intelligence, not knowledge.


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