Question 1

Technical documents longer than two pages should be addressed to

Accepted Answer

D

Question 2

In communicating technical information and analysis, most successful writers

Accepted Answer

Successful writers consider how readers view themselves in their roles to ensure the communication is relevant and engaging, tailoring the message to the audience's perspective and expectations.

Question 3

When selecting the content, structure, format, and phrasing for a document, writers should consider the reader's

Accepted Answer

The reader's role needs and priorities are crucial for determining the content, structure, format, and phrasing of a document to ensure it is relevant, accessible, and engaging for the intended audience.

Question 4

Although encoding messages is often difficult, the process of decoding these messages can be even harder because

Accepted Answer

The process of decoding messages can be harder because a receiver might interpret words or phrases differently than the sender intended. This discrepancy can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the message.

Question 5

Communication can break down for many reasons, including

Accepted Answer

Receiver inattentiveness can lead to communication breakdown as it prevents the message from being properly received and understood.

Question 6

Some of a reader's information needs can be predicted by

Accepted Answer

The reader's role and job description can help predict their information needs, as these factors determine what information is relevant and necessary for them to perform their tasks effectively.

Question 7

Oral communication transmits most of its meanings

Accepted Answer

The answer of Oral communication transmits most of its meanings
...

Question 8

North American readers prefer correspondence and reports that

Accepted Answer

North American readers generally prefer communication that is direct and clear, with the meaning spelled out explicitly. This preference for straightforwardness in written communication ensures that the message is understood without the need for interpretation or inference.

Question 9

According to Edward T.Hall, North American and German cultures are

Accepted Answer

Edward T. Hall classified North American and German cultures as low-context cultures, meaning they rely more on explicit communication and less on context or non-verbal cues to convey meaning.

Question 10

Technical Communication identifies the following levels of document technicality

Accepted Answer

Technical Communication typically categorizes documents into semi-technical, non-technical, and highly technical levels based on the intended audience's familiarity with the subject matter.

Question 11

Nonverbal cues convey

Accepted Answer

Nonverbal cues are primarily used to convey relational messages, such as emotions, attitudes, and interpersonal dynamics, rather than the specific content of a message.

Question 12

Identity needs that influence communication behaviour are essentially the same as

Accepted Answer

Identity needs relate to self-actualization, which involves understanding and expressing one's identity to others.

Question 13

Non-technical readers expect

Accepted Answer

Non-technical readers expect technical data to be expressed in terms they use and understand, making the information accessible and comprehensible to them.

Question 14

An audience/purpose profile is primarily useful as

Accepted Answer

A tool in planning any document's content, structure, and appearance helps the writer tailor the document to the intended audience's needs and expectations, ensuring the content, structure, and appearance are appropriate and effective.

Question 15

Which of the following letter openings would appeal to a reader from a low-context culture? (The letter tells the reader about a factory workers' strike that has halted production and prevented the writer's company from meeting its promised delivery dates.)

Accepted Answer

Option A is direct and to the point, which is characteristic of communication preferred in low-context cultures.

Question 16

Using the communication model illustrated in Chapter 2 will allow you to

Accepted Answer

The communication model helps in understanding the dynamics of a communication exchange, including potential barriers and the context in which the communication occurs, but it does not guarantee the ability to predict reactions accurately, bypass cultural filters, or fully understand how others think.

Question 17

Writing has informative value when it

Accepted Answer

It conveys knowledge that will be new to the reader.

Question 18

Specialized technical readers

Accepted Answer

Specialized technical readers often look for direct, concise information including necessary technical facts and figures, without the need for lengthy explanations, as they are already familiar with the subject matter.

Question 19

Ethnocentrism

Accepted Answer

Ethnocentrism often leads to misunderstandings and conflict between cultures because it involves judging other cultures based on the standards of one's own culture, which can result in a lack of understanding and appreciation for cultural differences.

Question 20

The main difference between highly technical and semi-technical documents is

Accepted Answer

The main difference lies in the level of technical detail and the specialized language (jargon) used. Highly technical documents contain more advanced technical details and use more jargon, targeting a specialized audience, while semi-technical documents might simplify some details and use less jargon to be more accessible to a broader audience.

Quiz 2: Meeting the Needs of Specific Audiences