Nice job with the Reader Guidelines.

Anything that increases the quality of discussion is a big plus.

Any thought about "Writer Guidelines"? Following a few basic rules would boost the readability of many posts. For example:

• Keep paragraphs short, especially the first few paragraphs. Long paragraphs intimidate readers, especially on the Web.
• The first part of the post should tell what is to come - don't plunge right into graphs and statistics.
• The last part of the post should summarize your points and give a take-away message
• The best posts develop their ideas logically according to a plan. Following an outline can help keep you on track.
• Whenever you make a highly technical point or cite an equation, provide a translation in everyday language for the non-engineers.
• The first time you use an acronym, spell it out.
• Use sub-heads and lists (numbered and unnumbered) to break up the text.
• Prefer short sentences and active voice (avoid the passive).
• Write headlines (article titles) that are meaningful.

These points are standard practice for technical writers and journalists. I've noticed that engineers and other technical professionals vastly improve their writing when they follow these guidelines.

Bart
Energy Bulletin