What is technical writing?

Technical writing is a form of communication that professionals use to convey information about
specialized topics. A technical writer might create content to provide instructions or explain
technical concepts regarding environmental regulations, computer applications or medical
procedures. Some of the most common industries that rely on technical writing include:

• Engineering
• Computer software and hardware
• Robotics
• Chemistry
• Finance
• Consumer electronics
• Forestry
• Aeronautics
• Medical and healthcare
• Biotechnology

Examples of technical writing

Here are some prominent examples of technical writing:

• Instruction manuals
• E-learning content
• Product specifications
• Product descriptions
• Reports
• Press releases
• Business proposals
• Job descriptions
• Textbooks

A technical writer may be writing for a specific industry, in which case the language tailors toward
the education level of its audience. However, sometimes a technical writer is writing for a general
audience. Many of the details provided by technical writers are complex, so the process of writing
involves analyzing the information and presenting it in a way that's easy for anyone reading it to
understand, even someone who does not have a lot of experience with the topic.

How to become a technical writer

Here’s how to become a technical writer:
1. Pursue education
Most technical writing positions require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Those who
want to pursue this field may want to take courses in technical subjects, including the sciences,
engineering and the medical field, in addition to writing and communication-focused courses.
When applying for jobs, technical writers often need to submit writing samples to show their
proficiency in this style of writing and their knowledge of certain subjects. It is helpful to maintain
a portfolio of samples, especially for those who want to work as freelance technical writers.

2. Develop relevant skills

Along with earning a degree, you need to build the skills needed to be a successful technical writer.
These include industry knowledge, communication, writing and other technical experience.
Technical writers should have strong communication and writing skills.
Good computer skills can allow you to use several different software programs to create and
change diagrams, illustrations and documents. A technical writer also has strong proofreading and
editing skills so they can deliver documents free of style-related and grammatical errors.
Additionally, technical writers use tables, diagrams, charts, photographs, illustrations and
drawings more clearly and effectively.

3. Learn style guides

It is also helpful to become proficient in all the major style guides, including the MLA Handbook,
The Chicago Manual of Style, The Associated Press Stylebook, APA Style, and the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) style. IEEE is the most commonly used style in
technical documents, especially in the engineering industry, although different companies and
clients have their own requirements. If you work in a specialized industry, consider focusing solely
on that style guide and the company’s unique requirements.

4. Become certified
Technical writers can also go through a process to become certified. The three main certification
options are:
Society for Technical Communicators
The Society for Technical Communicators offers a three-tiered program for certification. The tiers
are Foundation, Practitioner and Expert. Each level requires you to pass a more rigorous and
difficult exam than the previous level. When you hold a certification from this society, you may
have an advantage over other technical writers who have not completed the certification process.

American Medical Writers Association

When pursuing a career as a technical writer in the medical field, you’ll probably need to learn to
write about specialized tools and processes only found in healthcare. Therefore, the medical writer
certification through the American Medical Writers Association is a good option if you plan to
choose this career path. You must have at least two years of experience in medical communications
and a bachelor’s degree to become certified. After receiving your certification, you must take
continuing education courses throughout your career to maintain its validity.

National Association of Science Writers

The demand for technical writers is especially high in the sciences. Becoming certified through
the National Association of Science Writers can help you show that you have knowledge of
scientific topics and strong writing skills. When applying for this certification, you must provide
five pieces written within five years and two recommendations from current members of the
association.

5. Determine where you want to work

A technical writer might work on a freelance or contract basis, or they can often find full-time
positions with software or hardware companies, engineering firms, construction firms, chemical
processing companies, defense companies and other related businesses. Understanding the field
and what it requires is an important first step to making sure it is what you want to pursue in your
career. Talk to technical writers to get an idea of what their daily job duties include or review
technical documents, including customer support content and professional guides.

6. Develop a portfolio
When you apply for a technical writing job, it’s important to show proof of your skills. If you’re
an entry-level writer, you can work on technical documents on your own to create a portfolio.
While earning your bachelor’s degree, you can also look for internships and freelance writing
opportunities to gain more experience.

7. Build your network

Start by looking in your existing network of professional contacts to determine if you know anyone
in technical writing. Connecting with other people can help you find job opportunities and become
part of groups that focus on the field of technical writing. You may also want to attend related
conferences and events in your area to further build your network of contacts.