Quiz: Short Descriptions
Test your understanding of the structure, purpose, and best practices of DITA short descriptions.
1. What is the main goal of a short description in DITA?
- a) To replace the title
- b) To summarize the topic for readers and improve navigation
- c) To display steps
- d) To show metadata
2. What is the optimal length range for effective short descriptions?
- a) 10–15 words
- b) 25–50 words
- c) 75–100 words
- d) 100–150 words
3. Where should the <shortdesc> element appear in a topic file?
- a) Before the title
- b) Inside the steps
- c) Directly after the title, before the body
- d) At the end of the topic
4. Which short description pattern is most appropriate for task topics?
- a) Brief definition + why it matters
- b) Goal statement + when to perform
- c) Content scope + intended use
- d) Problem description + resolution method
5. What makes a short description ineffective?
- a) It is two sentences long
- b) It restates the title without adding value
- c) It provides context
- d) It uses clear, concise language