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    Technical Writing

    Reviewed by Erica Stone, English Instructor, Technical Writing, University of Missouri Kansas City on 6/19/18

    Comprehensiveness rating: 5

    The textbook is comprehensive; however, it seems to cover both technical writing and professional or workplace writing. It is absolutely appropriate for a comprehensive service course, but the authors should consider another title. Perhaps Technical and Professional Writing would be more accurate.

    Content Accuracy rating: 4

    There are a few minor typos and notes from a previous editor in the document and a few leftover editing notes. Regarding bias, the entire text does seem to be written for a particular course. While it is generalized, it does refer to particular assignments and contexts, sometimes without an example given.

    Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

    The content is up to date; however, it may require revision as technologies evolve and change. For example, the texting section may need to be updated within the next year to account for newer texting apps and conventions.

    Clarity rating: 5

    The entire textbook is clear and accessible. In some places, it is conversational; however, I find that quality increases its accessibility and approachability, which is necessary for a technical writing service course.

    Consistency rating: 5

    The framework and organization of the textbook is consistent and easy to follow.

    Modularity rating: 5

    The modularity is helpful, and the text is well-organized.

    Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

    All of the topics are presented in a logical and clear fashion.

    Interface rating: 5

    All of the available interfaces work well.

    Grammatical Errors rating: 5

    I did not see any grammatical errors during my review. I did, however, see a few leftover notes from the editor.

    Cultural Relevance rating: 5

    The text is culturally appropriate and all example are relevant and inclusive.

    Comments

    In some places, the example links do not work. When there is time, the editors and/or authors should review the book to check for errors and broken links.

    As mentioned in my first comment, the textbook could benefit from separating technical writing and professional writing as they are separate disciplines.

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