Reference Document

A Reference Document is a non-fiction document that provides instructions for a subject matter.

• Context:
  • It can contain a Glossary Section that defines key terms and concepts.
  • It can serve as an authoritative source of information on a particular topic or field.
  • It can be used to support learning, research, or practical application of knowledge.
  • It can be organized systematically to facilitate information retrieval, such as: alphabetically or by topic.
  • It can be periodically updated to reflect new developments or changes in the subject area.
  • ...
• Example(s):
  • a Guidelines Document, such as:
    • an Annotation Guidelines Document for data annotation.
    • a Style Guide that outlines writing and formatting conventions for a publication or organization.
    • ...
  • a Reference Book, such as:
    • a Textbook used for teaching a specific academic subject.
    • (Wall et al., 1996) a comprehensive guide to the Perl programming language.
    • (Nisbet et al., 2009) a reference for data analysis techniques.
    • a Dictionary that provides definitions and meanings of words in a language.
    • an Encyclopedia that offers a comprehensive overview of various topics or fields of knowledge.
    • ...
  • a Technical Manual that provides instructions for operating, maintaining, or repairing equipment or software.
  • a Legal Reference such as a law dictionary or case law compendium.
  • ...
• Counter-Example(s):
  • Fiction Books, since they are primarily designed to entertain rather than inform.
  • Personal Diary entries, since they are typically subjective and not intended as a reference for others.
  • Marketing Materials, since they aim to promote products or services rather than provide objective information.
  • ...
• See: FAQ Document, Glossary Document, Instruction Manual, API Reference, Quick Reference Guide, Cheat Sheet.

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References

2009

• (Nisbet et al., 2009) ⇒ Robert Nisbet, John Elder, and Gary Miner. (2009). “Handbook of Statistical Analysis and Data Mining Applications.” Academic Press. ISBN:0123747651

1996

• (Wall et al., 1996) ⇒ Larry Wall, Tom Christiansen, and Randal L. Schwartz. (1996). “[Programming Perl, 2nd edition]." O'Reilly. ISBN:1565921496

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