Technical Writing is the act of creating, organizing, and communicating complex processes involved in businesses, governmental organizations, trade industries, and educational institutions. It may involve the creation of several types of documents including: User Manuals, Software Installation Guides, Business Plans, White Papers, Case Studies, Request for Proposals, Grant Proposals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Technical Reports, Legal Disclaimers, Online Help Files, Training Materials, Website Content Writing, Health Communications, and many more. The format of Technical Documents may include: Physical hard copies, Computer based training (CBT), and Web-Based Training (WBT).
The steps in Technical Writing involves: Planning, Brainstorming, Outlining, Research, Writing, Designing, Editing, Proofreading, Delivery, as well as other steps depending on type of project. The Technical Writer may be required to conduct interviews in-person, on the telephone, or by sending questionnaires. Technical Writers should have above average Internet, Technology, and Writing Skills.
The Goal of Technical Writing is to communicate to your readers the information in the most effective way. The technical writer must know the product and their audience extensively. They must anticipate any questions that they may have, address and answer them in a concise manner. The writing style must be factual, concise, and neutral.
The projected occupational outlook for Technical Writers is above average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a growth of 8% from 2018 to 2028. The medium wage for technical writers in 2018 was $34.54 or $71, 850 per year. Most technical writers have college degrees, but it is possible to enter field by a desirable interest and disciplined work ethic. Technical writers come from a variety of fields which include: Writer, teacher, software engineer, website developer, architect, as well as other fields. Work environments may include: Manufacturing, Publishing, Educational, Scientific, Technical, as well as others. Many technical writers work remotely so they are not regionally based.
