Note: Avoid using "allow" when referring to software features.

Wrong: The software allows you to adjust the color.

Right: Using the software, you can adjust the color.

Note: Avoid using "choose". "Select" is usually more explicit.

Note: Two words, no hyphen unless used as an adjective. Avoid in user documentation and training materials; Acceptable in system documentation.

Examples: We supply software to end users. Complete the End-User License Agreement (EULA).

Note: "May" implies permission. Use "can" when appropriate.

Note: Avoid in user documentation and training materials; Acceptable in system documentation.

Use "display", "contain", or "insert" instead; or rewrite the sentence.

Note: Refer to a radio button by its label. If a descriptor is needed to avoid confusion, use "option".

Example: Select the Inactive option to filter the records.

Note: Two words. Generally, avoid talking about UI elements; instead, describe what the client needs to do.

Note: Generally, avoid talking about UI elements; instead, describe what the client needs to do.

Examples: Use the sliders to adjust the age range. Adjust the age range.

Note: Only use "startup" in the noun form with technical audiences. Hyphenate as "start-up" when used as an adjective. Do not use the verb form "start up".

Examples: The configuration file is read at startup. The names are in the start-up file.

Note: Use "menu" to describe subsequent menus. Only use "submenu" if it's necessary to describe the function of the menu.

Example: Instead of "From the Group menu, select the List submenu, then Skills", say "From the Group menu, select the List menu, then Skills."

Note:

Use as a gender-neutral singular when the gender of your subject (e.g. minister) isn't defined. This is seen as acceptable, inclusive, and easier to read as a replacement for variations of "he or she".

Wrong: The Audit Log didn't show when an authenticated user registered himself or herself or someone else.

Right: The Audit Log didn't show when an authenticated user registered themself or someone else.

Right: The Audit Log didn't show when Molly registered herself or someone else.

Note: Avoid calling customers "users" when possible. Say "you" instead.

Note: One word. Avoid unless referring to the setup of servers and clients.