Explanation of the rule including a rationale. You might have encountered some of these types of reference entries but these entries did not have all of the parts listed above. The parts of a reference entry that you actually include is based on the information that readers need. Similarly, within reference entries, you should only include the information your users need. When you write these entries, however, make sure that each entry in a document has all the same parts.
Users expect consistency among reference entries.
For example, you might be writing a policies manual for employees who do not have the authority to administer the policies. You would omit the section on administration from each reference entry. Finally, note that users should already be familiar with technical terms discussed in the reference entry. Provide a glossary of technical terms if you do not expect users to be familiar with terms. If you do not enter a directory name, the system assumes the program is stored in the root directory.