On the Readability of COBOL Manuals

Article Abstract:

General feelings about the readability of documentation manuals have typically been rather negative. The Flesch Reading Ease Index was used on COBOL manuals to determine whether general feelings about them had any basis. COBOL manuals were chosen because COBOL is a widely used language noted for its readability. Five vendor manuals were analyzed for sentence length and word length. The results show that all the manuals were as 'difficult' to read as academic journals. No significant differences were found between user and reference manuals.

Documentation, Study, Comparative Study, User Manual, User Aids, Readability, COBOL, COBOL (Programming language)

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In God we trust

Article Abstract:

US politicians are using religion in their campaigns, yet the Christian Coalition faces financial problems, and has split. Republicans are donating funds to other religious groups, while some religious leaders are keen to keep religion and political issued separate. There may be increased support from the center for a message based on religion. Social work carried out by religious organizations is supported by many suburbanites, who both have values and toleration.

United States, Political activity, Church and state, Church

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Don't drink the water!

Article Abstract:

The Environmental Working Group reported in early 1995 that public drinking water supplies in 28 of 29 cities surveyed in the Midwest corn belt are contaminated with herbicides. The use of water filters to remove herbicides is described.

Environmental aspects, Midwestern States, Drinking water, Contamination, Herbicides

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