What the ASD STE 100 PDF contains
The official ASD-STE100 PDF is the complete specification. It is the reference that writers, reviewers and trainers use. Our website gives summaries and practice, but only the PDF contains the exact rules and the full dictionary.
- Introduction: the purpose and scope of STE, and how to use the specification.
- Part 1 – Writing Rules: the rules for words, noun clusters, verbs, sentences, procedures, descriptive writing, safety instructions and punctuation, with examples.
- Part 2 – Dictionary: approved words with their part of speech and meaning, plus many unapproved words with approved alternatives.
- Guidance on technical names and technical verbs: how to add words from your own field.
Who can download it and how
Use the button on this page. It opens the PDF file on asd-ste100.org in a new tab. We do not host, copy or embed the file. This makes sure that you always get the version that ASD publishes. For details about conditions of use, registration or the history of the standard, see the official ASD-STE100 website.
If the link stops working, go to the home page of the official site and look for the current issue there. ASD may move the file when it publishes a new issue.
How to read the ASD STE 100 PDF
- Read the introduction first. It explains the terms that the rest of the document uses.
- Study Part 1 one section at a time. Start with words and verbs. These rules affect every sentence you write.
- Use the dictionary as a tool, not as a book. Look up words when you write and when you review. Use the search function of your PDF reader.
- Read the examples closely. The examples show how a rule changes a real sentence.
- Practise with your own texts. Rewrite a real procedure, then compare it with the rules. Our ASD STE 100 skill page has exercises.
- Keep a list of your technical names. Agree the list with your team, so everyone uses the same words.
What changed compared with earlier issues
Each issue of ASD-STE100 refines the rules and the dictionary, based on feedback from users. Changes can include clearer rule explanations, new or updated examples, and dictionary entries that are added, removed or changed. If your organisation used an earlier issue, compare your style guide and term lists with Issue 9. The official website and the introduction of the PDF give the authoritative information about changes.
Why we only link to the official file
Copies of the ASD STE 100 PDF on other sites can be incomplete, old or changed. A writer who uses an old dictionary may approve words that the current issue does not permit. A link to the official file is the safest way to share the standard with colleagues.