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= How To Write An AOI =
== So You Want To Write an AOI? ==
If you are currently reading this, it is likely that you are attempting to compose an AOI. This page aims to provide guidance on how to get started. It is strongly recommended that you begin by reading the entirety of the LORE category. This is a fundamental step to undertake when embarking on the writing of an AOI. The AOI lore is of utmost importance to the topic, hence it should be read thoroughly and not merely glanced at. It is advisable to read it multiple times as human beings, being prone to errors, may overlook crucial details.
Prior to commencing your writing, certain factors should be taken into consideration. Generally, the most frequently approved AOIs contain some or all of the following elements:
* A captivating concept.
* Sensible measures for containment.
* A clear and concise description.
These components are essential for an approved AOI. The AOI should captivate the reader from the outset and not be buried under excessive exposition. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of what your AOI does, is, or represents prior to beginning the writing process.
== On Tone ==
When discussing a "clinical tone," it is important to understand that it does not equate to using ostentatious vocabulary or having a focus on macabre themes. The following guidelines should be kept in mind when aiming for the appropriate tone:
* Precision and concision are essential. Avoid vague terminology, use fewer words when possible, and only use longer words when they are more appropriate. Flowery language and excessive adjectives should be avoided. As a scientist writing a technical paper, write plainly.
* Professionalism is crucial. Writing from the perspective of an FFOS researcher, it is important to avoid unprofessional language, such as slang or inappropriate humor. Furthermore, it is advisable for researchers to maintain a detached and unemotional tone in their writing to appear more objective.
For instance, when describing a werewolf, rather than writing:
"The entity is a ten foot tall wolfman with glowing crimson eyes and teeth like daggers. Its howl sends shivers down your spine, as if you instinctively know that we are its prey."
It would be better to write something like:
"The entity is a canid biped approximately three meters in length. It has luminescent red eyes and prominent incisors. Its vocalizations trigger a fear response in human subjects."
== Censorship ==
The use of redactions, [DATA EXPUNGED], and black boxes (popularized by SCP) can be employed to increase the sense of mystery or eliminate unnecessary information. It is crucial to be aware of what information is being redacted. Do not redact information to avoid writing it; rather, conceal crucial details to pique the reader's interest and prompt them to delve deeper. Leave them wondering what could be hidden behind the redaction.
Furthermore, it is important not to redact anything in the containment procedures. If the procedures are redacted, how will personnel know how to contain the object in question?