Getting Started
I daresay this is just about my technical writing journey and I’m going to be brutally honest. I was looking to move into the tech space and I had several options. I discovered technical writing and I was convinced this was something I wanted to do.
The idea of breaking down complex subjects into easy-to-understand articles was compelling enough. Coupled with how well-versed I was going to be in lots of technical subjects. Given that I'd be doing a lot of research to have expertise on the concept to deliver.
The idea was thrilling! I was ready!
Getting immersed
I went all in hook, line, and sinker and started my research. I read a great deal about it and all that it entailed.
Considering that I had always been a writer, it wasn't an entirely new experience. I just had to transfer my knowledge of writing, brush it up, and gain an understanding of Technical Writing.
I reached out to seasoned veterans for tips, enlightenments and to point me in the right direction. Now it was time to begin technical writing!😁
The “technical writing”
You learn to write by writing, and by reading and thinking about how writers have created their characters and invented their stories. If you are not a reader, don't even think about being a writer. - Jean M. Auel
The responsibilities of technical writers have a massive scope as it has unending opportunities. Being conversant with the variation and the necessary skills of the job will open you up to opportunities.
Technical writing is explaining complex concepts in simple ways through your writing. The writing style is very important as a technical writer, it gives the structure and clarity of what is written.
Remembering your purpose of writing which is to inform, guide or instruct is key and the next most important thing as knowing your purpose of writing is knowing your audience.
What is this Technical Writing? What are you going to write about? Believe me, I had similar questions initially.
Technical writing is the art of providing detail-oriented instructions to help users understand a specific skill or product. Technical writing is intended to solve a problem for an audience.
Technical reports as concerned with software include but aren't limited to:
• User manuals
• Case reports
• Preparing memos
• Online support articles
• API manuals
• Internal docs for API developers/coders
• Reviews
• Tutorials
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
• Learning resources
• Product description and functionality
Rundown
When it comes to Technical writing, good and acceptable documentation means informative, clear, concise, and usable. There's no room for flowery language.
Technical writing and editing tools, snipping tools are a must for good documentation. Look out for technical writing communities to be a part of to assist your growth. A technical writer should have a clear understanding and knowledge of the product.
Conclusion
You learn to write by writing. Begin by creating documentation on open-source projects. You can also write documentation on products and apps.
One benefit of being a writer is that writers are life-long learners. Writers are also voracious readers, frequently consuming information.
Over time you get to see your previous and recent documentation and the growth is glaring. Only if you frequently write!