Writing & StyleStyle guide
Term Lists
A term list pairs each term with a definition or explanation. Microsoft’s documentation style uses a bulleted structure for these lists, bolds the term when appropriate, and separates the term from its definition with a period.
Use a term list when each item is a term followed by its definition or explanation; keep the term/definition pattern consistent.
Key details
Core Issueformatting a set of terms with their definitions or explanations
Phrase Rolelist formatting and information structure
Registerprofessional and technical writing
Important caveats
Numbering Boundary
Microsoft recommends bullets by default and numbering only when sequence or numbered reference matters.
Structure Boundary
Each item consists of a term followed by a definition or explanation.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Lists (opens in a new tab)Microsoft Style Guide · Bulleted lists for unordered related items and numbered lists for sequences or priorities