Re: Using tables for content
So, whilst I search the archives, can we have a live discussion on the pros and cons of using tables for tech writing content. Consider a traditional procedure that uses step: in the left column, the action, and in the right column, the result. It seems, for Word, each row needs to be numbered manually.
Huh? I've used autonumbering in tables without a problem. Just select the first column and set numbering. I think I need a visual aid here. Are you saying that you cannot number a blank cell in a row when you only want numbers in that column? The trick to make that work is to enter a character and number that. For example, you can have each cell contain a period and set the numbering to not contain a period or white space. If you use a dash, then you can leave the white space. I did something like that years ago. It looks like the table that follows when converted to text.
1. - Begin Process Starts
2. - Continue Process Continues
3. - End Process Ends
Conversely, there is standard ordered list approach without using a table.
Presenting a list in a table format is usually best but that does not mean you have to use Word tables. The table format predates the automated tools and can be set with tabs or a well-formatted ordered list.
Steve offered the best suggestion.
On 10/24/2013 9:23 AM, Janoff, Steven wrote:
I'd consider drafting a sample both ways and then see how it looks, get feedback -- both your own intuition and then thoughts from trusted colleagues or users.
You can also follow Monique's suggestion of styles. I have used character styles for terms in a list of definitions that was set to a list style.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
New! Doc-to-Help 2013 features the industry's first HTML5 editor for authoring.
Learn more: http://bit.ly/ZeOZeQ
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
You are currently subscribed to TECHWR-L as archive -at- web -dot- techwr-l -dot- com -dot-
To unsubscribe send a blank email to
techwr-l-leave -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Send administrative questions to admin -at- techwr-l -dot- com -dot- Visit
http://www.techwhirl.com/email-discussion-groups/ for more resources and info.
Looking for articles on Technical Communications? Head over to our online magazine at http://techwhirl.com
Looking for the archived Techwr-l email discussions? Search our public email archives @ http://techwr-l.com/archives
References:
Using tables for content: From: Sean
Previous by Author:
Re: And Or situations
Next by Author:
Re: Using tables for content
Previous by Thread:
Re: Using tables for content
Next by Thread:
RE: Using tables for content
Search our Technical Writing Archives & Magazine
Visit TechWhirl's Other Sites
Sponsored Ads