What does "Shall" specifically indicate about an action in technical writing?

In technical writing, the term "shall" is used to indicate that an action or requirement is mandatory and must be followed. This is an important distinction because technical documents often serve as guidelines, instructions, or regulations that outline necessary procedures or standards. By using "shall," the author communicates that there is no flexibility in following the stated action, and compliance is essential for safety, functionality, or adherence to regulations.

In contrast, other terms like "should" or "may" denote suggestions or options, indicating that the action is either recommended or permissible but not mandatory. "Shall" eliminates ambiguity and ensures clarity about what must be done, thus reinforcing the importance of compliance in professional or technical environments. This specificity helps prevent misunderstandings that could lead to errors or safety issues.