Diátaxis Framework

I use the Diátaxis Framework to shape content around distinct user needs. This ensures documentation is purposeful, discoverable, and user-friendly.



What does it offer?

Users need different types of information at different times. Diátaxis defines four modes of documentation:

  1. Explanation: Understanding how things fit together
  2. How-To: Performing a specific task
  3. Guide: Completing a goal through a series of steps
  4. Reference: Looking up isolated facts or configuration details

Each mode addresses a specific user question and helps people quickly find the right kind of support.



Who benefits from each mode?

  1. Explanation: New users, analysts, system architects, business stakeholders
  2. How-To: New users, support teams
  3. Guide: New and intermediate users
  4. Reference: Intermediate and advanced users

By aligning content with user intent, the Diátaxis Framework improves onboarding, promotes product understanding, and reduces support queries.

I've prepared an example showing how I apply the Diátaxis Framework in practice. View Example →