The first part of the manual includes general topics that are organized by subject. The alphabetical usage dictionary follows with guidance about usage and spelling of general and computer-related terms. Topics provide information ranging from a simple note on the correct spelling of a term to a thorough review of what to do, why to do it, what to avoid, and what to do instead, with frequent examples.

Italic is used to call attention to words or phrases used as words rather than as a functional part of a sentence. For example: It is all right to use sync as an abbreviation for the verb synchronize. Examples of usage appear in quotation marks.

The Microsoft Manual of Style does not cover all terms or content issues that are specific to various Microsoft products and services. In addition, because legal guidelines change quickly and cannot be applied internationally, the Microsoft Manual of Style does not include content about legal issues. Information about Microsoft trademarking, including the trademark list, guidelines for usage, and licensing on a per-language basis can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/about/legal/en/us/IntellectualProperty/Default.aspx.