Why should technical documents be concise?

Technical documents should be concise primarily to prevent information overload. Conciseness allows the writer to present information clearly and directly, which helps the reader to easily understand and retain the key points. In technical writing, where clarity and efficiency are paramount, being concise means that writers focus on delivering only essential information without unnecessary elaboration. This approach not only respects the reader's time but also enhances their ability to grasp the material quickly. When documents are overly lengthy or filled with extraneous details, readers may struggle to find the information they need, leading to confusion and frustration. By keeping content succinct, technical documents become more user-friendly and effective in conveying critical information.