SIST ISO 24620-4:2024

Language resource management - Controlled human communication (CHC) - Part 4: Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines (BSG)

This document establishes a set of basic writing rules, called “basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines (BSG)”, for writing in English that can be applied to other languages, facilitating communication in each language and from a language to other languages. It includes conceptual writing rules as well as specific grammar ones.  
This document is designed to facilitate written communication in English for native and non-native English speakers. It allows English native and non-English native speakers to smoothly communicate through social media or email using English, or to translate into their local language. Furthermore, this document is applicable to the languages of each community. In other words, it aims to promote bi-directional communication between two particular languages.

Gestion des ressources linguistiques — Communication humaine contrôlée (CHC) — Partie 4: Principes de base et méthodologie pour les lignes directrices stylistiques

Upravljanje jezikovnih virov - Nadzorovana človeška komunikacija (CHC) - 4. del: Osnovna načela in metodologija za slogovne smernice

Ta dokument določa nabor osnovnih pravil, imenovanih »osnovna načela in metodologija za slogovne smernice (BSG)«, za pisanje v angleščini, ki jih je mogoče uporabiti za druge jezike, s čimer se olajša komunikacija v posameznem jeziku in med jeziki. Vključuje konceptualna pravila za pisanje in posebna slovnična pravila.  
Ta dokument maternim in nematernim govorcem angleščine olajša pisno komunikacijo v angleščini. Omogoča jim nemoteno komuniciranje prek družbenih medijev ali e-pošte v angleščini ali prevajanje v njihov lokalni jezik. Poleg tega se ta dokument uporablja za jezike vseh skupnosti. Z drugimi besedami, njegov namen je spodbujati dvosmerno komunikacijo med dvema jezikoma.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 15-Dec-2022
• Publication Date: 19-Aug-2024
• ICS: 01.020 - Terminology (principles and coordination)
• ICS: 01.140.20 - Information sciences
• Technical Committee: IDT - Information, documentation, language and terminology
• Current Stage: 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 07-Aug-2024
• Due Date: 12-Oct-2024
• Completion Date: 20-Aug-2024
• Ref Project: ISO 24620-4:2023 - Language resource management - Controlled human communication (CHC) - Part 4: Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines (BSG)

Overview

ISO 24620-4:2023 - Language resource management - Controlled human communication (CHC) - Part 4: Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines (BSG) - defines a practical, language-agnostic set of writing rules intended to improve written English for native and non‑native speakers and to make texts more readable and translatable. The standard combines conceptual and specific grammar guidance to promote clear, concise and correct communication (the “3C” rules) and to support bi‑directional communication between English and other languages.

Key Topics

• Principle and scope: Establishes BSG rules for writing in English that can be adapted to other languages to facilitate communication and translation.
• Methodology: Describes how to apply BSG focusing on sentences (syntax and grammar) and vocabulary considerations, using internationalization (I18n) and localization (L10n) phases.
• Steps to create BSG: Two-phase approach - internationalization to generalize rules across languages, then localization for language‑specific adaptation (vocabulary control/dictionaries are optional).
• 3C rules: Clear, correct and concise writing as the foundation for all stylistic guidance.
• Rule set: The standard provides 55 BSG rules grouped into categories:
  • Sentence length (8 rules) - short, concise sentences; separate essential from ancillary information.
  • Paragraph (8 rules) - organization and coherence.
  • Construction (14 rules) - syntax, clause order and sentence structure.
  • Modification (6 rules) - modifiers and clarity.
  • Vocabulary (12 rules) - word choice and keyword consistency.
  • Others (7 rules) - general style, tone and related matters.
• Support for machine translation: Encourages wording that improves translatability and MT output quality.

Applications

ISO 24620-4:2023 is practical for:

• Technical writers and documentation teams creating manuals, procedures and online help that must be clear for international audiences.
• Localization and translation teams seeking a standardized stylistic baseline to improve translation consistency and MT performance.
• Content creators and communicators using social media, email or web content aimed at mixed native/non‑native audiences.
• Standards developers and plain‑language initiatives wanting interoperable guidelines that bridge plain language and controlled language practices.

Benefits include improved readability, reduced ambiguity, better cross‑language communication, and higher quality machine and human translations.

Related Standards

• ISO 24620 series (other parts in CHC)
• ISO 24495-1 (plain language)
• Examples of controlled‑language rule sets such as ASD‑STE100 (referenced in ISO text)

Keywords: ISO 24620-4:2023, BSG, controlled human communication, controlled language, stylistic guidelines, plain language, localization, internationalization, machine translation, technical communication.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-oktober-2024
Upravljanje jezikovnih virov - Nadzorovana človeška komunikacija (CHC) - 4. del:
Osnovna načela in metodologija za slogovne smernice
Language resource management — Controlled human communication (CHC) — Part 4:
Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines (BSG)
Gestion des ressources linguistiques — Communication humaine contrôlée (CHC) —
Partie 4: Principes de base et méthodologie pour les lignes directrices stylistiques
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 24620-4:2023
ICS:
01.020 Terminologija (načela in Terminology (principles and
koordinacija) coordination)
01.140.20 Informacijske vede Information sciences
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 24620-4
First edition
2023-03
Language resource management —
Controlled human communication
(CHC) —
Part 4:
Basic principles and methodology for
stylistic guidelines (BSG)
Gestion des ressources linguistiques — Communication humaine
contrôlée (CHC) —
Partie 4: Principes de base et méthodologie pour les lignes directrices
stylistiques
Reference number
© ISO 2023
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Methodology — How to apply the rules . 2
6 Steps to create the stylistic guidelines (BSG) . 3
7 Stylistic guidelines rules (BSG) . 3
7.1 Types of rules . 3
7.2 Sentence length . 4
7.3 Paragraph . 5
7.4 Construction . 8
7.5 Modification . 10
7.6 Vocabulary. 12
7.7 Others . 15
7.7.1 General .15
7.7.2 Style. 16
7.7.3 Tone . 17
Annex A (informative) Difficulties and matters to be solved in communication .18
Bibliography .21
iii
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 37, Language and terminology,
Subcommittee SC 4, Language resource management.
A list of all parts in the ISO 24620 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
iv
Introduction
It can be generally understood that English has evolved into the representative international common
language, i.e. lingua franca. When browsing the internet, people can find many English sites. According
[6]
to an estimation made by W3Techs in 2022 , English is used by 60,4 % of all the websites whose content
[3]
language is known. ASD-STE100 , one of the representative controlled English rule sets, has been
downloaded by 71 % non-English-native-speaking countries compared with 29 % English-speaking
[4]
countries . This is natural considering communication methods with other countries. Currently,
people generally communicate with other people in non-English speaking countries by using English
via the internet, email and social media. Therefore, it is necessary to make the communication tool
(i.e. English) more understandable and translatable. This document provides guidelines for non-native
English speakers to write English in an easy-to-understand manner, not just native English speakers.
At the same time, almost one-third of internet sites (39,6 %) are written in languages other than English
[6]
according to the W3Techs report . People should use plain, concise and understandable language
because so many of their counterparts are not good at English and stick to their own language. By
making the language as plain as possible, these counterparts will be able to understand it, and they
will be able to apply it to machine translation. As a result, people can find that they need two languages:
English and their own language. In order to facilitate communication worldwide, it is necessary for
people to make English and their own language plain, comprehensible and easily translatable, i.e. to
make languages bi-directionally accessible.
In addition, in some countries, there is an active movement to improve the language itself so that it
can be communicated in an easy-to-understand and non-misunderstood manner in order to promote
[5] [3]
communication. Typical examples are plain languages and ASD-STE100 . Both have a long history,
[3]
especially ASD-STE100 , which was first released in 1983. In addition, plain languages have evolved
into the languages of various countries, not just English. In the future, it could be helpful to have writing
[3]
rules that cover both plain languages and ASD-STE100 across the board.
It is possible that the writing rules of this document overlap with the rules of plain languages and
[3]
controlled languages (such as ASD-STE100 ), but it also includes other detailed rules. This is to be able
to address various languages in detail. The writing rules are not based solely on one language, as is the
traditional practice, but instead by comparing English with a linguistically different language such as
Japanese.
Writing using this document can facilitate communication around the world by writing original text
that is easy for the readers to understand and by improving the quality of machine-translated output
text.
v
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 24620-4:2023(E)
Language resource management — Controlled human
communication (CHC) —
Part 4:
Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines
(BSG)
1 Scope
This document establishes a set of basic writing rules, called “basic principles and methodology for
stylistic guidelines (BSG)”, for writing in English that can be applied to other languages, facilitating
communication in each language and from a language to other languages. It includes conceptual writing
rules as well as specific grammar ones.
This document is designed to facilitate written communication in English for native and non-native
English speakers. It allows English native and non-English native speakers to smoothly communicate
through social media or email using English, or to translate into their local language. Furthermore,
this document is applicable to the languages of each community. In other words, it aims to promote bi-
directional communication between two particular languages.
2 Normative references
There are no normative references in this document.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines
BSG
guidelines specifying common writing rules applicable to many languages
3.2
technical communication
process of defining and creating information for use to be delivered as information products for the
safe, effective, and efficient use of a supported product throughout its life cycle
1)
[SOURCE: ISO 24183:— , 3.1.1, modified — Notes 1 to 3 to entry deleted.]
3.3
plain language
communication in which wording, structure and design are so clear that the intended readers can easily
— find what they need,
1) Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: ISO/DIS 24183:2022.
— understand what they find, and
— use that information
[SOURCE: ISO 24495-1:2023, 3.1]
3.4
controlled language
language restricting the grammar and vocabulary used, to reduce ambiguity and complexity and to
help people to understand the content
3.5
keyword
word or phrase used to describe the main content (nouns and verbs) of a document in a consistent
manner
3.6
part of speech
category to which a word is classified according to each syntactic function
EXAMPLE Noun, verb, adjective.
3.7
internationalization
process of generalizing a product so that it can handle multiple languages and cultural conventions
without the need for re-design
Note 1 to entry: Internationalization takes place at the level of programme design and document development.
[7]
[SOURCE: Localization Industry Standards Association (LISA) ]
3.8
localization
process of taking a product and making it linguistically and culturally appropriate to the target locale
(country/region and language) where it will be used and sold
Note 1 to entry: The term derives from “locale”: a place where something particular happens or is done.
Translation (T9n) is one of the activities in localization.
[7]
[SOURCE: Localization Industry Standards Association (LISA) ]
4 Principle
Since there are many common factors and rules among languages, it is possible to create a set of writing
rules that is applicable to many different languages.
5 Methodology — How to apply the rules
The task of simplifying language can be divided into two groups: sentences and words. Sentences are
involved in syntactic and grammatical issues, which can be applicable to all languages. On the other
hand, since words (or vocabulary) heavily depend on the language of each country, it is difficult to find
and apply common rules.
The BSG given in this document concentrate on simplifying language by sentences, including clauses
and phrases. Any difficulties related to writing sentences can be solved by applying the 3C rules in
technical writing and technical communication: clear, correct and concise:
— clearly showing the sentence structure and not making the structure complicated;
— writing in statements of fact, and distinguishing between facts and opinions;
— giving simple and concise expressions.
The 3C rules are applicable to any language, and are used in many writing guidelines for plain languages
and controlled languages.
BSG in one language can be created immediately by applying this English version to that language.
Some grammatical or syntactic ingenuity can be required.
6 Steps to create the stylistic guidelines (BSG)
There are two necessary phases to complete BSG: internationalization and localization. Figure 1 shows
and explains the relation of the two concepts.
Key
A globalization (G11n)
B internationalization (I18n) or generalization
C localization (L10n)
D translation (T9n)
E simultaneous shipment
Figure 1 — Terms used in globalization
Based on the BSG rules (in English), create language rules corresponding to each of the English rules. To
do this, an idea of internationalization is necessary to find similarities in languages to make them more
generalized, rather than finding differences.
After internationalization, the production stage moves to the language-specific matters: localization.
A dictionary specific to the language selected, including the approved words and deprecated words,
can be necessary (“vocabulary control”). The dictionary should be created for each language to make
effective use of this rule set. However, creating a dictionary is not mandatory. If it is too time-consuming
to create a dictionary, starting with just the writing rules is possible.
7 Stylistic guidelines rules (BSG)
7.1 Types of rules
This clause provides the 55 BSG rules, which comprise 8 sentence-length rules (see 7.2), 8 paragraph
rules (see 7.3), 14 construction rules (see 7.4), 6 modification rules (see 7.5), 12 vocabulary rules (see
7.6) and 7 other rules (see 7.7).
7.2 Sentence length
7.2.1 BSG Rule 1.1: Write in short and concise sentences.
EXAMPLE
No: When the Control application of the inspection system is started up, the IS screen is displayed for checking
and setting the data necessary for detailed inspection, such as program, default values and functions.
(33 words)
Yes: When you start the Control application of the inspection system, the IS screen is displayed. (15 words)
You can use the IS screen to check and set the data necessary for detailed inspection, such as program,
default values and functions. (23 words)
NOTE See Rule 1.2 (7.2.2) for identifying essential information. See Rule 3.13 (7.4.3) for the order of
sentences.
7.2.2 BSG Rule 1.2: Divide essential information from ancillary information. Write the essential
information first.
EXAMPLE
No: The research laboratory, located in the ancient capital city of Nara in Japan and famous for its unique
management policy, has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function, usually seen in the neural
medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (42 words)
Yes: The research laboratory has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function. (11 words) The function
is usually seen in the neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (17
words) The laboratory is located in the ancient capital city of Nara in Japan and is famous for its unique
management policy. (21 words)
The information enclosed by commas (underlined text) in the “No” sentence in the Example is ancillary,
not-essential information. Place the ancillary information in separate sentences after the sentence with
the essential information.
NOTE See Rule 3.13 (7.4.3) for the order of sentences.
7.2.3 BSG Rule 1.3: Divide a compound sentence that does not share subjects and predicates.
EXAMPLE
No: Press the SHIFT button and then the device automatically detects the difference.
Yes: Press the SHIFT button. The device automatically detects the difference.
7.2.4 BSG Rule 1.4: Divide a sentence with complicated nested constructions into simple sentences
with a clear structure.
EXAMPLE
No: When the linkage is complete, the inner domain is recorded if the operation is in the Lock mode.
Yes: The operation is engaged in the Lock mode. When the linkage is complete, the inner domain is
recorded.
7.2.5 BSG Rule 1.5: Separate overlong modification(s).
EXAMPLE
No: ABC research laboratory has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function, usually seen in the
neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (25 words)
Yes: ABC research laboratory has developed a device. The device has a self-diagnosis function, and it is
usually seen in the neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence.
7.2.6 BSG Rule 1.6: Separate a lengthy adnominal (attributive) clause from the subject.
EXAMPLE
No: The intranet Q&A site that facilitates knowledge sharing and communication among employees has been
established.
Yes: The intranet Q&A site has been established. The site facilitates knowledge sharing and communication
among employees.
We have established the intranet Q&A site.
7.2.7 BSG Rule 1.7: Use a complete sentence to introduce lists.
EXAMPLE
No: In addition to invoking, managing, and scrolling windows, the windowing environment can
—  customize windows,
—  manage libraries and files, and
—  search text.
Yes: In addition to invoking, managing, and scrolling windows, the windowing environment can be used as follows:
—  to customize windows;
—  to manage libraries and files;
—  to search text.
7.2.8 BSG Rule 1.8: Avoid interruptions in the middle of a sentence.
EXAMPLE
No: To automatically define a libref each time SAS starts, add
libname _saswa ;
to your autoexec.sas file.
Yes: To automatically define a libref each time SAS starts, add the following statement to your autoexec.sas file:
libname _saswa ;
SOURCE: Reference [8].
7.3 Paragraph
7.3.1 BSG Rule 2.1: Destructure a long sentence into a group of short sentences. Use 20 words for an
instruction and 25 words for a description.
EXAMPLE 1
No: If you want to set up an ideal environment during an example creation operation, especially a graphic
example creation operation, or a file editing operation, especially graphic file editing operation, or a data
saving operation, especially graphic data saving operation, click “Environment” twice to execute the gen-
eration. (47 words)
Yes: If you want to set up an ideal environment, click “Environment” twice to execute the generation during the
following operations: (20 words)
—  an example creation operation (especially a graphic one); (8 words)
—  a file editing operation (especially a graphic one); (8 words)
—  a data saving operation (especially a graphic one). (8 words)

EXAMPLE 2
No: After you have removed the electrical power from the system, make sure that the refueling panel
switches go back to their normal position. (23 words)
Yes: Remove the electrical power from the system. (7 words) Make sure that the refueling panel switches go
back to their correct position. (13 words)
[3]
SOURCE: ASD-STE100.
7.3.2 BSG Rule 2.2: Include only one topic or task per sentence.
If two or more topics or tasks are included in one sentence, it is possible that readers will not able to
understand the meaning and will be confused.
NOTE One word, one meaning; one sentence, one meaning/topic; one paragraph, one topic: these are well-
known basic concepts for good writing.
EXAMPLE
No: Set the TEST switch to the middle position and then release the SHORT-CIRCUIT TEST switch.
Yes: Set the TEST switch to the middle position.
Release the SHORT-CIRCUIT TEST switch.
[3]
SOURCE: ASD-STE100.
7.3.3 BSG Rule 2.3: Include only one topic per paragraph.
Do not include two or more topics in one paragraph. A strong paragraph is structured with one topic
sentence and other sentences that support the topic.
EXAMPLE
No: For an instructional information, an active voice sentence clearly tells who should carry out the action.
To make a precaution message effective, you should show the consequences of the potential risks to
the user. The passive voice focuses on the result since the object in an active voice sentence is dealt as
the subject. On the contrary, the active voice lets the reader to follow the instructions. If an imperative
sentence is used for an instruction, an English native speaker feels more directly addressed.
The example paragraph shown above is difficult to read and grasp. The causes are as follows:
— the paragraph includes several topics (actually four topics);
— keywords for each topic are shown without any threads (mutual relation is not apparent);
— there is no relation between the sentences, i.e. no logic flow.
7.3.4 BSG Rule 2.4: Lead from known information to unknown information.
EXAMPLE 1
No: A stabilizer is provided on the machine to stabilize the main unit.
Yes: The main unit of the machine is equipped with a stabilizer.

EXAMPLE 2
No: The Synchronization button is provided with Footswitch to keep the timing close to each cycle.
Yes: Footswitch is equipped with the Synchronization button to keep the timing close to each cycle.
7.3.5 BSG Rule 2.5: Use consistent keywords and terms to avoid unnecessary synonyms and similar
phrases.
EXAMPLE
No: The type of data shown in the screen can differ depending on the sort of data you select in the display.
Yes: The type of data shown in the screen can differ depending on the data you select in the screen.
7.3.6 BSG Rule 2.6: Show things in parallel grammatical form if they are parallel.
EXAMPLE 1
No: A positive result will be got in the normal operation while you get a negative result in the reverse opera-
tion.
Yes: You get a positive result in the normal operation while you get a negative result in the reverse operation.
If two or more ideas are parallel, they are easier to grasp when expressed in parallel grammatical form.
[9]
Single words should be balanced with single words, phrases with phrases, clauses with clauses.
EXAMPLE 2
No: See page 28 for information on selecting an appropr
...

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 24620-4
First edition
2023-03
Language resource management —
Controlled human communication
(CHC) —
Part 4:
Basic principles and methodology for
stylistic guidelines (BSG)
Gestion des ressources linguistiques — Communication humaine
contrôlée (CHC) —
Partie 4: Principes de base et méthodologie pour les lignes directrices
stylistiques
Reference number
© ISO 2023
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Methodology — How to apply the rules . 2
6 Steps to create the stylistic guidelines (BSG) . 3
7 Stylistic guidelines rules (BSG) . 3
7.1 Types of rules . 3
7.2 Sentence length . 4
7.3 Paragraph . 5
7.4 Construction . 8
7.5 Modification . 10
7.6 Vocabulary. 12
7.7 Others . 15
7.7.1 General .15
7.7.2 Style. 16
7.7.3 Tone . 17
Annex A (informative) Difficulties and matters to be solved in communication .18
Bibliography .21
iii
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 37, Language and terminology,
Subcommittee SC 4, Language resource management.
A list of all parts in the ISO 24620 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
iv
Introduction
It can be generally understood that English has evolved into the representative international common
language, i.e. lingua franca. When browsing the internet, people can find many English sites. According
[6]
to an estimation made by W3Techs in 2022 , English is used by 60,4 % of all the websites whose content
[3]
language is known. ASD-STE100 , one of the representative controlled English rule sets, has been
downloaded by 71 % non-English-native-speaking countries compared with 29 % English-speaking
[4]
countries . This is natural considering communication methods with other countries. Currently,
people generally communicate with other people in non-English speaking countries by using English
via the internet, email and social media. Therefore, it is necessary to make the communication tool
(i.e. English) more understandable and translatable. This document provides guidelines for non-native
English speakers to write English in an easy-to-understand manner, not just native English speakers.
At the same time, almost one-third of internet sites (39,6 %) are written in languages other than English
[6]
according to the W3Techs report . People should use plain, concise and understandable language
because so many of their counterparts are not good at English and stick to their own language. By
making the language as plain as possible, these counterparts will be able to understand it, and they
will be able to apply it to machine translation. As a result, people can find that they need two languages:
English and their own language. In order to facilitate communication worldwide, it is necessary for
people to make English and their own language plain, comprehensible and easily translatable, i.e. to
make languages bi-directionally accessible.
In addition, in some countries, there is an active movement to improve the language itself so that it
can be communicated in an easy-to-understand and non-misunderstood manner in order to promote
[5] [3]
communication. Typical examples are plain languages and ASD-STE100 . Both have a long history,
[3]
especially ASD-STE100 , which was first released in 1983. In addition, plain languages have evolved
into the languages of various countries, not just English. In the future, it could be helpful to have writing
[3]
rules that cover both plain languages and ASD-STE100 across the board.
It is possible that the writing rules of this document overlap with the rules of plain languages and
[3]
controlled languages (such as ASD-STE100 ), but it also includes other detailed rules. This is to be able
to address various languages in detail. The writing rules are not based solely on one language, as is the
traditional practice, but instead by comparing English with a linguistically different language such as
Japanese.
Writing using this document can facilitate communication around the world by writing original text
that is easy for the readers to understand and by improving the quality of machine-translated output
text.
v
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 24620-4:2023(E)
Language resource management — Controlled human
communication (CHC) —
Part 4:
Basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines
(BSG)
1 Scope
This document establishes a set of basic writing rules, called “basic principles and methodology for
stylistic guidelines (BSG)”, for writing in English that can be applied to other languages, facilitating
communication in each language and from a language to other languages. It includes conceptual writing
rules as well as specific grammar ones.
This document is designed to facilitate written communication in English for native and non-native
English speakers. It allows English native and non-English native speakers to smoothly communicate
through social media or email using English, or to translate into their local language. Furthermore,
this document is applicable to the languages of each community. In other words, it aims to promote bi-
directional communication between two particular languages.
2 Normative references
There are no normative references in this document.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
basic principles and methodology for stylistic guidelines
BSG
guidelines specifying common writing rules applicable to many languages
3.2
technical communication
process of defining and creating information for use to be delivered as information products for the
safe, effective, and efficient use of a supported product throughout its life cycle
1)
[SOURCE: ISO 24183:— , 3.1.1, modified — Notes 1 to 3 to entry deleted.]
3.3
plain language
communication in which wording, structure and design are so clear that the intended readers can easily
— find what they need,
1) Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: ISO/DIS 24183:2022.
— understand what they find, and
— use that information
[SOURCE: ISO 24495-1:2023, 3.1]
3.4
controlled language
language restricting the grammar and vocabulary used, to reduce ambiguity and complexity and to
help people to understand the content
3.5
keyword
word or phrase used to describe the main content (nouns and verbs) of a document in a consistent
manner
3.6
part of speech
category to which a word is classified according to each syntactic function
EXAMPLE Noun, verb, adjective.
3.7
internationalization
process of generalizing a product so that it can handle multiple languages and cultural conventions
without the need for re-design
Note 1 to entry: Internationalization takes place at the level of programme design and document development.
[7]
[SOURCE: Localization Industry Standards Association (LISA) ]
3.8
localization
process of taking a product and making it linguistically and culturally appropriate to the target locale
(country/region and language) where it will be used and sold
Note 1 to entry: The term derives from “locale”: a place where something particular happens or is done.
Translation (T9n) is one of the activities in localization.
[7]
[SOURCE: Localization Industry Standards Association (LISA) ]
4 Principle
Since there are many common factors and rules among languages, it is possible to create a set of writing
rules that is applicable to many different languages.
5 Methodology — How to apply the rules
The task of simplifying language can be divided into two groups: sentences and words. Sentences are
involved in syntactic and grammatical issues, which can be applicable to all languages. On the other
hand, since words (or vocabulary) heavily depend on the language of each country, it is difficult to find
and apply common rules.
The BSG given in this document concentrate on simplifying language by sentences, including clauses
and phrases. Any difficulties related to writing sentences can be solved by applying the 3C rules in
technical writing and technical communication: clear, correct and concise:
— clearly showing the sentence structure and not making the structure complicated;
— writing in statements of fact, and distinguishing between facts and opinions;
— giving simple and concise expressions.
The 3C rules are applicable to any language, and are used in many writing guidelines for plain languages
and controlled languages.
BSG in one language can be created immediately by applying this English version to that language.
Some grammatical or syntactic ingenuity can be required.
6 Steps to create the stylistic guidelines (BSG)
There are two necessary phases to complete BSG: internationalization and localization. Figure 1 shows
and explains the relation of the two concepts.
Key
A globalization (G11n)
B internationalization (I18n) or generalization
C localization (L10n)
D translation (T9n)
E simultaneous shipment
Figure 1 — Terms used in globalization
Based on the BSG rules (in English), create language rules corresponding to each of the English rules. To
do this, an idea of internationalization is necessary to find similarities in languages to make them more
generalized, rather than finding differences.
After internationalization, the production stage moves to the language-specific matters: localization.
A dictionary specific to the language selected, including the approved words and deprecated words,
can be necessary (“vocabulary control”). The dictionary should be created for each language to make
effective use of this rule set. However, creating a dictionary is not mandatory. If it is too time-consuming
to create a dictionary, starting with just the writing rules is possible.
7 Stylistic guidelines rules (BSG)
7.1 Types of rules
This clause provides the 55 BSG rules, which comprise 8 sentence-length rules (see 7.2), 8 paragraph
rules (see 7.3), 14 construction rules (see 7.4), 6 modification rules (see 7.5), 12 vocabulary rules (see
7.6) and 7 other rules (see 7.7).
7.2 Sentence length
7.2.1 BSG Rule 1.1: Write in short and concise sentences.
EXAMPLE
No: When the Control application of the inspection system is started up, the IS screen is displayed for checking
and setting the data necessary for detailed inspection, such as program, default values and functions.
(33 words)
Yes: When you start the Control application of the inspection system, the IS screen is displayed. (15 words)
You can use the IS screen to check and set the data necessary for detailed inspection, such as program,
default values and functions. (23 words)
NOTE See Rule 1.2 (7.2.2) for identifying essential information. See Rule 3.13 (7.4.3) for the order of
sentences.
7.2.2 BSG Rule 1.2: Divide essential information from ancillary information. Write the essential
information first.
EXAMPLE
No: The research laboratory, located in the ancient capital city of Nara in Japan and famous for its unique
management policy, has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function, usually seen in the neural
medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (42 words)
Yes: The research laboratory has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function. (11 words) The function
is usually seen in the neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (17
words) The laboratory is located in the ancient capital city of Nara in Japan and is famous for its unique
management policy. (21 words)
The information enclosed by commas (underlined text) in the “No” sentence in the Example is ancillary,
not-essential information. Place the ancillary information in separate sentences after the sentence with
the essential information.
NOTE See Rule 3.13 (7.4.3) for the order of sentences.
7.2.3 BSG Rule 1.3: Divide a compound sentence that does not share subjects and predicates.
EXAMPLE
No: Press the SHIFT button and then the device automatically detects the difference.
Yes: Press the SHIFT button. The device automatically detects the difference.
7.2.4 BSG Rule 1.4: Divide a sentence with complicated nested constructions into simple sentences
with a clear structure.
EXAMPLE
No: When the linkage is complete, the inner domain is recorded if the operation is in the Lock mode.
Yes: The operation is engaged in the Lock mode. When the linkage is complete, the inner domain is
recorded.
7.2.5 BSG Rule 1.5: Separate overlong modification(s).
EXAMPLE
No: ABC research laboratory has developed a device with a self-diagnosis function, usually seen in the
neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence. (25 words)
Yes: ABC research laboratory has developed a device. The device has a self-diagnosis function, and it is
usually seen in the neural medication field, which has gradually been increasing its presence.
7.2.6 BSG Rule 1.6: Separate a lengthy adnominal (attributive) clause from the subject.
EXAMPLE
No: The intranet Q&A site that facilitates knowledge sharing and communication among employees has been
established.
Yes: The intranet Q&A site has been established. The site facilitates knowledge sharing and communication
among employees.
We have established the intranet Q&A site.
7.2.7 BSG Rule 1.7: Use a complete sentence to introduce lists.
EXAMPLE
No: In addition to invoking, managing, and scrolling windows, the windowing environment can
—  customize windows,
—  manage libraries and files, and
—  search text.
Yes: In addition to invoking, managing, and scrolling windows, the windowing environment can be used as follows:
—  to customize windows;
—  to manage libraries and files;
—  to search text.
7.2.8 BSG Rule 1.8: Avoid interruptions in the middle of a sentence.
EXAMPLE
No: To automatically define a libref each time SAS starts, add
libname _saswa ;
to your autoexec.sas file.
Yes: To automatically define a libref each time SAS starts, add the following statement to your autoexec.sas file:
libname _saswa ;
SOURCE: Reference [8].
7.3 Paragraph
7.3.1 BSG Rule 2.1: Destructure a long sentence into a group of short sentences. Use 20 words for an
instruction and 25 words for a description.
EXAMPLE 1
No: If you want to set up an ideal environment during an example creation operation, especially a graphic
example creation operation, or a file editing operation, especially graphic file editing operation, or a data
saving operation, especially graphic data saving operation, click “Environment” twice to execute the gen-
eration. (47 words)
Yes: If you want to set up an ideal environment, click “Environment” twice to execute the generation during the
following operations: (20 words)
—  an example creation operation (especially a graphic one); (8 words)
—  a file editing operation (especially a graphic one); (8 words)
—  a data saving operation (especially a graphic one). (8 words)

EXAMPLE 2
No: After you have removed the electrical power from the system, make sure that the refueling panel
switches go back to their normal position. (23 words)
Yes: Remove the electrical power from the system. (7 words) Make sure that the refueling panel switches go
back to their correct position. (13 words)
[3]
SOURCE: ASD-STE100.
7.3.2 BSG Rule 2.2: Include only one topic or task per sentence.
If two or more topics or tasks are included in one sentence, it is possible that readers will not able to
understand the meaning and will be confused.
NOTE One word, one meaning; one sentence, one meaning/topic; one paragraph, one topic: these are well-
known basic concepts for good writing.
EXAMPLE
No: Set the TEST switch to the middle position and then release the SHORT-CIRCUIT TEST switch.
Yes: Set the TEST switch to the middle position.
Release the SHORT-CIRCUIT TEST switch.
[3]
SOURCE: ASD-STE100.
7.3.3 BSG Rule 2.3: Include only one topic per paragraph.
Do not include two or more topics in one paragraph. A strong paragraph is structured with one topic
sentence and other sentences that support the topic.
EXAMPLE
No: For an instructional information, an active voice sentence clearly tells who should carry out the action.
To make a precaution message effective, you should show the consequences of the potential risks to
the user. The passive voice focuses on the result since the object in an active voice sentence is dealt as
the subject. On the contrary, the active voice lets the reader to follow the instructions. If an imperative
sentence is used for an instruction, an English native speaker feels more directly addressed.
The example paragraph shown above is difficult to read and grasp. The causes are as follows:
— the paragraph includes several topics (actually four topics);
— keywords for each topic are shown without any threads (mutual relation is not apparent);
— there is no relation between the sentences, i.e. no logic flow.
7.3.4 BSG Rule 2.4: Lead from known information to unknown information.
EXAMPLE 1
No: A stabilizer is provided on the machine to stabilize the main unit.
Yes: The main unit of the machine is equipped with a stabilizer.

EXAMPLE 2
No: The Synchronization button is provided with Footswitch to keep the timing close to each cycle.
Yes: Footswitch is equipped with the Synchronization button to keep the timing close to each cycle.
7.3.5 BSG Rule 2.5: Use consistent keywords and terms to avoid unnecessary synonyms and similar
phrases.
EXAMPLE
No: The type of data shown in the screen can differ depending on the sort of data you select in the display.
Yes: The type of data shown in the screen can differ depending on the data you select in the screen.
7.3.6 BSG Rule 2.6: Show things in parallel grammatical form if they are parallel.
EXAMPLE 1
No: A positive result will be got in the normal operation while you get a negative result in the reverse opera-
tion.
Yes: You get a positive result in the normal operation while you get a negative result in the reverse operation.
If two or more ideas are parallel, they are easier to grasp when expressed in parallel grammatical form.
[9]
Single words should be balanced with single words, phrases with phrases, clauses with clauses.
EXAMPLE 2
No: See page 28 for information on selecting an appropriate number and to structure the utility
configuration.
Yes: See page 28 for information on how to select an appropriate number and how to structure the utility
configuration.
EXAMPLE 3
No: You cannot use the Edit function to change the designated file, set up the Utility or protect the data.
Yes: You cannot use the Edit function to change the designated file, to set up the Utility or to protect the data.

EXAMPLE 4
No: You can enjoy the following merits derived from the membership system of your shop:
—  listing direct mail addresses;
—  to obtain credibility for
...