Documentation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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documentation
[หdษหkjสmษnหteษชสษn ]
Definitions
information
Documentation refers to the act of creating, collecting, and organizing information in a systematic way. It often includes written instructions, guidelines, manuals, and records to help users understand a product, process, or system.
Synonyms
guidance, instructions, records.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
Used when referring to a collection of documents that provide information about a specific topic, process, or product, usually in a technical or formal setting.
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| records |
Used when referring to documents or data that are preserved for the purpose of retaining information, typically for official, legal, or historical purposes.
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| guidance |
Used when referring to advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or difficulty. Often used in educational or advisory settings.
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| instructions |
Used when referring to step-by-step directions on how to perform a specific task or use a product. It is often found in manuals or user guides.
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Examples of usage
- Make sure to read the documentation before using the software.
- The documentation provided detailed steps for assembling the furniture.
- The documentation for the project was well-organized and easy to follow.
legal
In a legal context, documentation refers to the collection and preservation of evidence or records to support a claim or prove compliance with regulations. It can include contracts, agreements, invoices, and other official documents.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
In general use, this word can simply refer to the act of recording or keeping detailed information.
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| records |
Used in various settings to refer to archived information or data, often in an organized or official manner.
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| evidence |
Commonly used in legal, scientific, or investigative contexts to refer to information or objects that prove or disprove something.
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| paperwork |
Generally used in casual or workplace contexts to refer to various forms and documents that need to be filled out or processed.
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Examples of usage
- The lawyer requested documentation to support the client's case.
- The documentation submitted with the application was thorough and complete.
- Proper documentation is essential for demonstrating regulatory compliance.
software
In the context of software development, documentation includes technical descriptions, specifications, and explanations of code and algorithms. It serves as a reference for developers, testers, and users to understand the software.
Synonyms
code explanation, software manual, technical documentation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
General term for all written materials relating to the use, maintenance, and development of software or hardware. Encompasses many types of documents such as manuals, user guides, and specifications.
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| technical documentation |
Detailed written material that describes the architecture, design, and technical aspects of software or hardware systems. Mainly intended for developers and IT professionals.
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| software manual |
Comprehensive guide focused on end-users, providing step-by-step instructions on how to use the software, its features, and its functions. Ideal for new users or those seeking to fully utilize the software.
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| code explanation |
Specific explanations within the code itself, often as comments, to help programmers understand the logic and purpose of the code. Useful during development and team collaborations.
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Examples of usage
- The software documentation outlined the functionality of each module.
- Writing clear documentation is as important as writing good code.
- Developers often refer to documentation when troubleshooting issues.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- In software development, documentation provides insights on how to use applications, APIs, and system components.
- Technical documentation helps ensure that software is accessible for both developers and end-users.
- As technology has evolved, digital formats like online wikis and PDFs have become the primary means of keeping documentation up to date.
Education
- In classrooms, documentation can include study guides, rubrics, and curricula to aid learning and teaching.
- Educators often use documentation methods to track student progress and adapt instructional strategies.
- Learning portfolios are a form of documentation where students showcase their work and growth over time.
Business
- Proper documentation in a business setting can protect companies legally and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Reports, memos, and meeting notes are forms of documentation that help maintain clarity and accountability in teams.
- With the rise of remote work, effective documentation practices have become essential for collaboration across distances.
Health Care
- Medical documentation is crucial for patient care, outlining history, treatments, and outcomes.
- Legally, health records must be maintained to protect patient rights and ensure quality care.
- Electronic Health Records (EHR) have transformed how healthcare providers document and share patient information.
Origin of 'documentation'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'documentum', meaning a 'lesson or evidence'.
- It entered the English language in the mid-15th century, initially referring to legal records and proofs.
- Over time, its use expanded to include various forms of written information across multiple fields.
The word 'documentation' originated from the Latin word 'documentum', meaning 'lesson' or 'example'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the process of creating and preserving written records. The concept of documentation has been essential in various fields such as information technology, legal practice, and research.
See also: documentarian, documentary, documented, documenting, documents, undocumented.