Learning how to become a technical writer can open up opportunities for someone who enjoys working with words. Many of these writers are full-time employees who produce manuals and instruction booklets for a variety of products and services. Other technical writers are freelancers and work under contract performing a range of documents for clients.
Skills Needed
Besides having excellent grammar and spelling skills, a technical writer must be able to approach tasks logically. She should also excel in taking complex processes and ideas and distilling them into readable pieces. Basic organization skills are a must, as is the ability to write under tight deadlines. Many technical writers are also well versed in one or more technology-heavy fields, such as computer programming, medicine or engineering.
Education
While it is possible to become a technical writer without formal education, the surest route to a tech writing position is a bachelor's degree in journalism or English. Many university or community college programs even offer technical writing classes, as well as desktop publishing, editing and basic business courses that will complement the role of a technical writer.
Outside the English degree, college is an excellent place to get training in some technical areas. From biology and chemistry to physics and computers, any additional classes in technology fields can increase your marketability when it's time to search for a job. A college setting is also a great place to get internships as a technical writer, providing on-the-job experience.
Types Of Technical Writing Jobs
A technical writer's job may be different from one position to the next. Generally, the position requires the translation of dense technical jargon into organized and understandable print. A technical writer may write any or all of the following:
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