You’ve probably read a user manual, a help article, or a tutorial and thought, “Who writes this stuff?” Surprise: it’s a technical writer! And if you're reading this, there’s a decent chance you’re thinking about becoming one.
Good news: technical writing is a growing field, full of opportunities for curious, clear-thinking communicators. Better news? You don’t need to be a programming wizard or an engineering genius to start. But you do need a few key skills, some curiosity, and the ability to explain complex stuff in a way that makes people go, “Ah! That makes sense now.”
What Exactly *Is* Technical Writing?
Technical writing is the art (yes, art!) of translating complicated information into clear, concise, and user-friendly content. This might include:
- User manuals for software or hardware
- API documentation for developers
- Online help systems
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Installation guides, whitepapers, knowledge bases—you get the idea
If there’s a product, process, or system, someone needs to explain how it works. That someone could be you.
Skills Every Great Technical Writer Needs
Think of technical writing as a delightful cocktail of communication, curiosity, and a dash of nerdiness. Here are some key ingredients:
- Clarity and simplicity. You’re not trying to impress with big words. You’re trying to make things understandable.
- Empathy. Know your audience. Your tone and detail level depend on who’s reading.
- Research skills. If you love asking “why?” and “how?” and don’t mind digging through documents or interviewing engineers, you’ll thrive.
- Basic technical knowledge. You don’t need a PhD, but understanding how systems work is essential.
- Writing tools proficiency. Markdown, Word, Confluence, MadCap Flare, GitHub — get familiar.
- Visual communication. Diagrams, screenshots, and flowcharts can do a lot of the heavy lifting.
How to Get Into Technical Writing
1. Learn the Basics
Courses in technical communication, writing, or even online tutorials can help. Think Google, Coursera, or YouTube rabbit holes.
2. Build a Portfolio
Document an app you love, write how-to guides on Medium, or contribute to open-source projects. Show you can turn tech into readable text.
3. Network Like a Human
Join communities on LinkedIn, Reddit (r/technicalwriting), or Slack groups. Ask questions. Connect.
4. Apply for Jobs
Start with entry-level roles, internships, or freelance gigs. Look for titles like:
- Technical Writer
- Documentation Specialist
- Content Developer
- Information Developer
Sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and We Work Remotely are great places to start.
Tips to Thrive as a Technical Writer
- Be endlessly curious. You’ll spend a lot of time asking questions.
- Write like a human. Your readers are people, not robots.
- Keep learning. Technology changes constantly.
- Edit ruthlessly. The first draft is for getting ideas out. The second (and third...) is for making it shine.
Final Thoughts
If you love explaining things, solving puzzles, and helping others understand the world just a little better, technical writing could be your jam. It’s a rewarding career with real impact—and yes, you can absolutely make a living writing things like “Turn it off and on again.”
So go ahead: learn the craft, build a portfolio, and start applying. The tech world needs more great communicators. Why not you?
Now, go write something awesome.
