The technical writing example is a helpful document usually used in technology businesses by technical writers to write instructions for consumers. A good technical writer can turn a set of instructions into everyday language.
Table of Contents
What is technical writing?
Technical writing is a way of communication that technical writers use to translate complex technical information into easy-to-understand language. It is all about translating engineering and scientific jargon into easily digestible content. Moreover, the common industries that rely on technical writing are;
- Engineering
- Computer software and hardware
- Robotics
- Chemistry
- Finance
- Consumer electronics
- Forestry
- Aeronautics
- Medical and health care
- Biotechnology
Before turning complex information into understandable instructions, the writers must learn about new technologies and processes. Also, they need to write accordingly their audience.
What are the important characteristics of technical writing?
Some essential characteristics of technical writing include the following;
Direct
Avoid using jargon and flowery writing style. If you are using acronyms then write their abbreviation the first time you use them. However, you can also include a list of acronyms somewhere in your document.
Clear and concise
Use concise sentences and stay focused on the subject matter if you want to convey clear information.
Solid structure
Logically present the information so that the readers easily read in flow – from one topic to the next. There shouldn’t be any spelling mistakes and use proper grammar.
Informative
Don’t make assumptions about any topic. Provide all of the details clearly so that people who do not know the subject will understand it clearly.
What are some examples of technical writing?
Technical writing is used in different fields and industries. Following are a few examples of technical writing;
- Instruction manuals
- E-learning content
- Software installation guides
- Product specifications
- Product descriptions
- Reports
- Press releases
- Business proposals
- Job descriptions
- Textbooks
- Company documents
- Case studies
The technical writers need to analyze the information and present it in a way that is understandable by someone who does not know about the topic.
How to become an expert technical writer?
You need to focus on your strengths to become an expert technical writer. Try to focus on one or two specific forms of technical writing. To determine what you’re good with, do various writing assignments and check out technical writing samples. Moreover, you can also search online to understand your industry. Start to focus on becoming an expert in your respective industry once you have nailed down it and the technical writing type.
Before starting any project, it would be better to check out technical writing examples. Search for examples that are relevant to your industry and company. After having a complete idea of what you need to do, start your writing process. As a writer, you need to have a solid base on the topic because technical writing involves dealing with complex details. This may need the following;
- Past experience
- Direct technical knowledge
- A capability to understand multiple pieces of information quickly
In addition, you may have to work with professionals from different fields to become a technical writer such as software developers, product designers, HR professionals, and many others. Some organizations or companies hire writers who have great writing skills while some may hire those who have a history in their fields.
Due to the insurgence of SaaS companies, e-commerce stores, and more, the demand for technical writing has increased. Nowadays, various technical writers are available online.
Technical Writing Readability and Style
Technical Writing for Engineers
Technical Writing Examples
Technical Writing White Paper Examples
Free Technical Writing Examples
Technical Report Writing
Some General and Technical Writing Suggestions
Guide to Prospectuses and Other Technical Writing
Elements of Technical Writing Style
10 Ways to Improve Your Technical Writing
Steps involved in technical writing:
Here are the steps that successful writers follow while technical writing;
- First, gather all the details that you need for technical writing. This may include document type, subject, goals, audience, etc.
- Determine the audience who they are and how they will use the information.
- Know about the users who are new to the topic as they have their expectations that they need in the document.
- Write the document by considering how the user will use the document. The writing style can be quite different for the end-user and for the consumer who has intimate knowledge of the subject.
- Logically map out the document subject areas so that it flows to the end goal for your document.
- During the writing process, use the experts and technical documents as references.
- Start writing the document by considering the following pointers in mind;
1- Use active voice
2- Avoid jargon
3- The document should be visually appealing
4- Do a visual check
5- Add graphics - Review the document technically
FAQ’s
These are as follows;
1- Purpose
2- Target audience
3- Content
4- Organization
5- Style
