What does the term "scannability" refer to in technical documents?

The term "scannability" in technical documents refers to the ease with which readers can skim a document to quickly locate important information. This concept is essential in technical writing because users often need to find specific data or instructions without reading an entire document in detail. High scannability is achieved through effective formatting strategies, such as the use of headings, bullet points, numbered lists, and white space, which allow readers to navigate the content quickly. By prioritizing scannability, writers can enhance the usability of their documents, ensuring that vital information is easily accessible to the reader.