How do you write simple explanations without sounding condescending?

Re:How do you write simple explanations without sounding con... by dx87 on Monday November 16, 2020 @10:24AM (#25112776)

I try to avoid using words like "you", "people", etc., when writing explanations because it keeps the explanation from feeling personal (unless it's supposed to be personal). I also try to leave out any subjective statements without supporting evidence. At least to me, it can be discouraging when reading about a subject and the author talks about how "simple" something is, or allows you to "quickly and easily do X", but I don't find it simple, and struggle to use it to do X. Let the reader decide if it's simple, don't tell them it's simple because it could make them feel stupid if they don't find it simple.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:How do you write simple explanations without sounding con... by grvdrm on Monday November 16, 2020 @11:03AM (#25113254)

Perfectly said. Said another way - avoid qualifying

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:How do you write simple explanations without sounding con... by RhysU on Monday November 16, 2020 @01:33PM (#25115247)

Yes! Do not use "just" or "basically" or other words that imply that you believe the concepts to be simple. "Basically, you just frobnosticate the dodad." kills me when I hear it in a meeting.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:How do you write simple explanations without sounding con... by karmakaze on Monday November 16, 2020 @01:27PM (#25115176)

This makes sense to me as a way of summarizing the second point--say things directly without characterizing it one way or the other.

[ Parent | on HN ]