Nesting topics in a DITA map serves the purpose of structuring content hierarchically to create a logical and organized documentation outline. This hierarchical nesting allows for the efficient management of complex information, the creation of reusable content units, and the presentation of content at varying levels of granularity to cater to diverse audiences and delivery contexts.

Parent-Child Relationship

Nesting topics in a DITA map follows a parent-child relationship, where a parent topic or map contains one or more child topics or maps. This hierarchical structuring offers several benefits, including modularity, reusability, and granularity.

Modularity

Topics can be modular, self-contained units of information. Nesting allows organizing them in a logical sequence or hierarchy. For example, in a software manual, a parent topic could be a chapter on “Advanced Features,” while child topics within it might cover individual functionalities like “Data Import,” “Data Export,” and “Customization.” This modularity facilitates content reuse and maintenance.

Reusability

Child topics can be reused in multiple parent topics or maps. If a topic contains information relevant to various chapters, it can be included in each relevant location. This reuse ensures consistency and saves time when updating content.

Granularity

Nesting topics allows for presenting information at varying levels of granularity. Readers can access the broad overview at the parent topic level and delve into finer details by navigating to child topics. For example, a “Troubleshooting” chapter can contain child topics addressing specific issues, each with its solutions.

Example:

In a DITA map for a photography guide, the parent topic, “Camera Techniques,” contains child topics such as “Exposure Settings,” “Composition Tips,” and “Low-Light Photography.” Each of these child topics can, in turn, contain more detailed subtopics. For “Exposure Settings,” the content creator might include child topics like “Shutter Speed,” “Aperture,” and “ISO Settings.” This nesting provides a clear and organized structure, allowing users to explore photography techniques from broad concepts down to specific settings and techniques. It also enables reuse, so a “Shutter Speed” topic can be used in both the “Camera Techniques” and “Troubleshooting” chapters, where applicable.