Page 19 - Delaware Lawyer - Summer 2020
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One way to leverage digital technology is to create links and headings to help the reader navigate more easily within the document.
reading, it may be critical to print out and read at least the primary authori- ties, testimony or documents at issue in the case. Relying on screen reading to prepare a screen-written document may compound the problems.
If printing these materials is not possible or if, like us, that seems en- vironmentally insensitive to you, then actively eliminate distractions. Deac- tivate notifications. Close down tabs. Focus solely on the document to be read. Read the entire document with- out distraction and in one sitting. Do not let the F pattern dominate your comprehension.
In addition, choose a reading device that is large enough to provide a full page, or nearly so. Some people use a second, larger monitor to increase the screen size for reading important doc- uments. In addition, consider using software that displays on the left mar- gin (owing to the F effect, no doubt) a table of contents, headings or other in- dication of where you “are” in the text. If you can adapt to it, consider using a device or software that lets you more easily make annotations.
Finally, be sure to compensate for the over-confidence you, as a screen reader, will have. Engage actively with the screen and take notes, on pa-
per if need be, to ensure your under- standing.
Why and How You Should Improve Your Screen Writing
The fact that studies show it is more difficult for screen readers to receive
information effectively and efficiently should be reason enough for you to change how you write. Several arti- cles describe ways to improve screen- based communications.16 The follow- ing summarizes common suggestions
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