Although you will want to include as much information as possible when writing your white paper, there are some things that you should absolutely avoid. Just as with any other business document, they are simple and very obvious. Before you submit your white paper for publishing, make sure to review it for anything that you may have possibly overlooked.
The most obvious – and most important – things that should be avoided are any spelling and grammatical errors. Make sure to frequently review drafts of your white paper, as well as using computer tools or the assistance of a friend. Also, verbs should be simple and short. The longer they are, the more verbose and boring your white paper may be. Also, verbs should be active and not passive.
Another area that should be considered when writing a white paper is the language that is included. If the writing is too technical, your readers may not understand what you are saying. Never assume that your readers know as much about the product as you do, because they don’t. Try to incorporate technical information only when absolutely needed, and, when used, make sure to further define it to its simplest meaning.
If you are using abbreviations in your white paper, make sure to include the meaning behind the abbreviation when first used. Try to avoid using too many, though, as you want your paper to be easy to read, not requiring a dictionary. Although abbreviations can be used, try to avoid using acronyms. Use them when only absolutely necessary, remembering to capitalize them at all times.
One thing that should be avoided at all times is writing your white paper to be a user manual. Your white paper should provide consumers with a multitude of information about your product; however, it should not be limited to just information on how to use your product. If your white paper is a glorified user manual, you will lose a customer base and potential clientele.