The use of templates in a proposal style guide is very beneficial as it simplifies the process of creating documents for technical writers. Templates are pre-designed and formatted documents that not only improve efficiency but also ensure that the document adheres to the specifications of the style guide. This is a valuable resource for any organization looking to streamline their document creation process.
They come complete with correctly styled headings, margins, and other essential elements, eliminating the need for writers to spend precious time on formatting. Instead, they can focus their efforts on crafting and inserting the relevant content seamlessly into these templates.
Typically, these templates encompass a set of standardized structural components that precisely adhere to your style guide’s requirements. These components include:
Introduction
- Purpose of the Style Guide
- Audience
- Revision History
Branding and Visual Identity
- Company Logo
- Color Palette
- Typography
- Imagery and Graphics
Proposal Structure and Components
- Cover Page
- Table of Contents
- Executive Summary
- Introduction
- Problem Statement
- Proposed Solution
- Methodology
- Timeline
- Budget
- Team and Expertise
- Conclusion
- Appendices
Writing Style and Tone
- Professionalism and Formality
- Clarity and Conciseness
- Use of Jargon and Technical Terms
- Active vs. Passive Voice
- Avoiding Biased Language
Grammar and Punctuation
- Capitalization
- Sentence Structure
- Punctuation Marks
- Numbers and Units of Measurement
Formatting Guidelines
- Headings and Subheadings
- Bullet Points and Numbered Lists
- Tables and Figures
- Citations and References
- Page Layout and Margins
- Page Numbers
In-Text Citations and References
- Citation Styles (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago)
- Proper Attribution
- Bibliography Format
Review and Approval Process
- Reviewers’ Responsibilities
- Approval Workflow
- Version Control
Appendices
- Sample Templates
- Glossary of Terms
- Additional Resources
