# STE Examples

Before and after transformations showing common STE improvements.

## Sentence Length

**Before (28 words):**
> The technician must make sure that all of the fasteners that hold the access panel in place are properly torqued to the specifications that are listed in the maintenance manual before the aircraft can be released for service.

**After (14 words):**
> Check that the access panel bolts are torqued to the values in the maintenance manual.

Split the long sentence. Remove "make sure that all of the fasteners that hold." Use direct language.

---

## Passive Voice

**Before:**
> The oil filter is removed by the mechanic.

**After:**
> The mechanic removes the oil filter.

Find the actor. Put them at the front of the sentence.

---

## Jargon

**Before:**
> The component should be utilised in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.

**After:**
> Use the part as the manufacturer says.

Replace "utilised" with "use." Replace "component" with "part." Replace "in accordance with" with "as." Replace "guidelines" with "says."

---

## Multiple Verbs

**Before:**
> Disconnect the battery, remove the four bolts, and take off the panel.

**After (three steps):**
> 1.  Disconnect the battery.
> 2.  Remove the four bolts.
> 3.  Take off the panel.

One action per step. Split compound instructions.

---

## Hidden Instructions

**Before:**
> The valve should be opened to allow the fluid to drain.

**After:**
> Open the valve to let the fluid drain.

Remove "should be." Use imperative mood for instructions.

---

## Missing Articles

**Before:**
> Remove bolts from panel.

**After:**
> Remove the bolts from the panel.

Every noun needs an article. Use "the" for specific items, "a/an" for general.

---

## Abbreviations

**Before:**
> Check the ECU for fault codes. The ECU controls engine timing.

**After:**
> Check the engine control unit (ECU) for fault codes. The ECU controls engine timing.

Define the abbreviation on first use. Use the abbreviation after.

---

## Numbers

**Before:**
> Install three bolts and two washers.

**After:**
> Install 3 bolts and 2 washers.

Use digits for numbers 11 and above. Use words for 1 through 10.

Correction: STE says spell out 1-10. So:

> Install three bolts and two washers.

This is correct. The rule is: spell out 1-10, use digits for 11+.

---

## Inline Lists

**Before:**
> You will need a wrench, sockets, screwdrivers, and pliers.

**After:**
> You will need:
> - A wrench
> - Sockets
> - Screwdrivers
> - Pliers

Move inline lists to vertical format for readability.

---

## Warning Placement

**Before:**
> WARNING: Wear safety gloves.
>
> 1.  Start the procedure.
> 2.  Remove the cover.
> 3.  Check the filter.

**After:**
> 1.  Start the procedure.
> 2.  Remove the cover.
>
>    WARNING: Wear safety gloves. Hot oil can cause burns.
>
> 3.  Check the filter.

Place warnings directly before the step they apply to, not at the start of the procedure.

---

## Sentence Over 20 Words

**Before:**
> Before you begin this procedure, make sure that the engine has been shut down for at least thirty minutes so that all moving parts have stopped and all pressures have equalized.

**After:**
> Make sure the engine is cool. Wait 30 minutes after shutdown.

Split into two sentences. Remove the long dependent clause. Use specific time.

---

## Inconsistent Terms

**Before:**
> The bolt is loose. Tighten the screw. Check the fastener.

**After:**
> The bolt is loose. Tighten the bolt. Check the bolt.

Use one word for one thing. If it is a bolt, call it a bolt every time.