If you’ve heard the term “technical writing,” you might be wondering what it is, how it is different to other writing, what skills it requires, and if there is a demand for technical writers. Let’s dive in.
What’s technical writing?
Technical writing explains complex ideas clearly so people who need to meet a particular goal or finish a specific task have the information they need to do so. In short, technical writing provides instructions and explanations. Technical writers often work in scientific and technological disciplines, such as electronics, environmental regulation, and engineering.
I’m a good writer—does that make me a technical writer?
Not necessarily. Technical writing is far different to the type of writing you’d do if you were working on your novel, or even writing a paper. Your goal in technical writing is to explain a concept or process so clearly that others can follow your instructions to perform their task successfully.
Among the ways in which technical writing is set apart are the following:
Technical writing is not creative, so you must curb your imagination. It’s your job to present facts directly, without comment. You want exceptional clarity, because you don’t want to leave room for anyone to interpret your writing in their own way, or to come up with their own meaning.
You also must use precise language. When a technical writer describes a process or an object in a particular field, they use the terminology of that discipline. This may seem counterintuitive, as though you’ll be spouting “jargon,” but you’ll likely be writing for people working in a specific field, and every discipline has its own language. However, you should choose the most easily understood terminology in that field and avoid complex wording.
Technical writing is denotative, which is another way of saying it defines something. It is also detailed writing. These concepts go back to the idea that a technical writer does not want readers to misunderstand or misinterpret the material.
Technical writing is both structured and “skimmable.” Structured means that it provides what you could think of as step-by-step instructions readers can follow to complete their project, while “skimmable” means it’s easy to browse through. To achieve this, you might provide an index, a table of contents, highlight or otherwise set apart sections of particular importance.
Technical writing is designed to help others solve problems. Readers will be able to refer to these texts to finish tasks, or, if they are still puzzled, the writing will provide tips on where to go to find additional information or assistance.
Finally, the major goal of technical writing is to break down complex information or concepts so readers can understand and use it, even if they are new to the field.
Er . . . that’s a lot, but I’m still interested. How do I start?
The skills you need to become a technical writer are much like the qualities you need in the writing itself, such as clarity, precision, and structure.
First, and most importantly, you need a solid understanding of both your product and service, and the industry in which you operate. Imagine you are writing a technical manual on how to operate a medical device, and provide incomplete or incorrect information. If someone follows your instructions and makes a mistake, the consequences could be catastrophic.
You also must understand your target reader, and whether they are considered B2B or B2C (business-to-business or business-to-consumer). If you are writing a manual to accompany a dishwasher, your target is an individual who is also the end user. You need to tell them how to operate the dishwasher, how to troubleshoot if necessary, and when to find a pro.
If you’re writing a B2C instruction, you might be providing information to several people who are involved with the product or service. Let’s say you’re writing for the dishwasher manufacturer. Then you’re dealing with all the people who make the components of the machine, and your approach will be different, as you will have different parameters for the plumber and the electrician.
You also need to develop “soft” skills including communicating well with others, knowing how to use technical writing software, have basic web and graphic design skills, know how to do in-depth research, and learn the essentials of technical documentation—are you writing a physical booklet, a .pdf, or a pop-up?
Are technical writers in demand?
Yes! According to one source, about 23,500 technical writers work in the U.S., but there are more than 75,000 job openings, with an average salary of about $65,000. However, most companies want a technical writer to have a degree in a field such as business or English, and 1-2 years’ work in a related field. You could gain this experience as an administrative assistant at an electronics company, for example.
You also need to have the “soft skills” mentioned earlier, and a technical writer certification, such as the Certified Technical Professional will increase your earning potential. To become a technical writer, it may take you anywhere from six to twelve months.
However, if you enjoy detailed work oriented toward providing facts, technical writing could be for you. At Words of Worth, we offer a variety of writing assignments, so why not apply to be a writer with us today?