Should Technical Reports Use Present Tense for System Operations?

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Using present tense in technical reports, especially when describing system operations, is generally preferred as it reflects the current functionality of the system. The discussion emphasizes that the report resembles a User's Manual, focusing on how the system operates rather than detailing its creation. Adopting present tense enhances clarity and readability, aligning with the intent to explain ongoing processes. Participants suggest that providing examples could lead to more tailored feedback. Overall, present tense is recommended for sections analyzing system operations.
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Hi, I know this isn't a technical question but I have to write a technical report based on a data acquisition program which I have created. I am a bit confused about the tenses of one section, namely 'Analysis of System operation' . Although the program has already been made, i feel that it should be written in the present tense as I am explaining how the system works, not how it was made. Any Ideas (sorry if its the wrong section) :)
 
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Physicist3 said:
Hi, I know this isn't a technical question but I have to write a technical report based on a data acquisition program which I have created. I am a bit confused about the tenses of one section, namely 'Analysis of System operation' . Although the program has already been made, i feel that it should be written in the present tense as I am explaining how the system works, not how it was made. Any Ideas (sorry if its the wrong section) :)

I agree that the present tense seems the best match. I'm thinking that much of what you are writing is like a User's Manual for users of your program...
 
berkeman said:
I agree that the present tense seems the best match. I'm thinking that much of what you are writing is like a User's Manual for users of your program...

Its a technical report based on the data acquistion program produced where the system must be discussed, analysed and evaluated. Ill stick with present tense as I am not explaining an experiment that was carried out as such and I think present tense reads better. Thanks :)
 
If you posted an example of your report...a few sentences...or a paragraph, then members here might be better able to advise and or offer opinions.

Bobbywhy
 

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