Technical writing is a highly valuable skill. It is crucial for anyone working in a tech-related business, for engineers and scientists communicating their knowledge, and for people looking for rewarding, full-time work as writers.
So, what is involved in technical writing, and how can you become a technical writer?
Technical writing is not just about understanding technical information and recording it in a document. Technical writing takes high-level information and processes it into digestible content for a specific audience. This article will outline and define the technical writing process, best practices, and steps to launch your technical writing career.
What is Technical Writing
Technical writing is broadly defined by the Society of Technical Communication as “any form of communication that shows one of more of the following qualities:
Communicating about technical or specialized topics, such as computer applications, medical procedures, or environmental regulations.
Communicating by using technology, such as web pages, help files, or social media sites.
Providing instructions about how to do something, regardless of how technical the task is or even if technology is used to create or distribute that communication.”
This writing style covers any type of text that aims to explain detailed information. A technical writer communicates in a way that presents technical information so that the reader can use that information for an intended purpose.
Courses –
Diploma Course
PG Diploma Course
Colleges / Institute –
Symbiosis Institute of Liberal Arts, Pune
KBuffer , Chennai
Stella Maris College, Chennai
ICOn Center for Training and Career Advancement Pvt. Ltd, Chennai
TechTotal Soft System, Hyderabad
Job Roles –
Develops a thorough understanding of the audience and the documentation required by meeting with colleagues, and working with managers to discuss technical problems
Researches and builds knowledge about products, services, technology, or concepts to be documented
Determines the clearest and most logical way to present information and instructions for greatest reader comprehension and writes and edits technical information accordingly
Prepares or commissions graphics and illustrations to elaborate on or complement technical writing
Meets with subject matter experts in order to ensure that specialised topics are appropriately addressed and discussed
Collaborates with translators as necessary to convert writing into a variety of languages
Works with sales and marketing colleagues to ensure that the finished documentation meets product requirements
Revises, edits, or updates instructions, technical information, and frequently asked questions as necessary
Creates, adapts, and follows project schedules and deadlines
Specialises in technical writing for one or more specific industries
Remains up-to-date on technological and product developments as well as universal specifications relevant to his or her industry
Attends conferences, trade shows, and educational seminars pertinent to his or her industry