Final answer:
"Scope" in technical writing refers to the content that is included or excluded in a document. It is determined by the document's purpose, audience needs, and context. Technical writers balance technical detail with clarity, adapting to the audience and platform while using specialized vocabulary as required.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term scope refers to what is and is not included in technical writing. When technical writers create documents such as procedural guides, business proposals, and FAQs, they have to determine the scope to ensure that the information is relevant and adequate for their audience. The scope is influenced by the purpose of the document, the needs of the audience, and the context in which the document will be used.
Technical writers often need to balance the requirements for technical accuracy and thoroughness with the necessity for clarity and conciseness. They must avoid overly technical language when the audience is not specialized in the field, to avoid confusion. Additionally, technical writers tailor the document's format and style, including adapting content for multiple platforms, to meet the specific conventions of both the industry and the intended readership.