How To Become a Technical Writer

Technical writers work in a variety of industries, especially tech and engineering sectors. They interpret complicated technical information into easy-to-understand directions, manuals, and diagrams. There's a few things you need to know before choosing a career as a technical writer. Read on to learn more about this career and how you can become one!

THE TECHNICALITIES OF TECHNICAL WRITING

Technical writers will take complex ideas and form them into a more understandable format for unfamiliar audiences. For example, a company guidebook may have a lot of high-level, difficult verbiage and jargon. It’s up to the technical writer to take all those points and break them down into digestible pieces.

HOW IT'S DIFFERENT FROM REGULAR WRITING

Whereas "regular" writing allows of a great deal of leeway with creativity, tone, and voice, technical writing is like translating. Technical writing does demand a degree of creativity, but the focus is on taking complex information and making it digestible for all audiences, especially those who are not familiar with the product or service. Because of this, there are more parameters and requirements, allowing for less creativity and freedom with how you communicate your ideas.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

Being a technical writer is more than just writing—there are other skills necessary to succeed in the field.

• Curiosity: Technical writers love learning new things, speaking to thought leaders and subject matter experts (SMEs), and researching topics.
• Skilled with technology: Technical writers must, at minimum, be able to use a computer for word processing and editing. It also helps if you have a background in products or services you will write about.
• Organized: Technical writers can work on multiple projects, and work with tight deadlines. Being organized will help you succeed in this industry.
• Skilled researcher: In order to present accurate information, you need to be adept a researching complicated topics.
• Concise: You’ll need to be able to look at what your writing assignment is and be able to translate it for someone who knows nothing about it.
• Skilled writer: In order to become a technical writer, you must be skilled as a writer. You must understand grammar, syntax, word usage, and more. Skilled writers are open to criticism and willingly work with editors to make their finished products flawless.

WHERE DO TECHNICAL WRITERS WORK?

Technical writers use their skills in a multitude of settings, from engineering firms to agencies.

Anywhere there’s a need for written information, you’ll find a technical writer. Tech companies, healthcare systems, and engineering firms, employ technical writers to help clarify complex information.

And because industries are continually refining, updating, evolving, and moving forward, there will be a constant need for technical writers, especially those with experience and college degrees.

IS A DEGREE NECESSARY?

Employers typically look for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or journalism. Also, experience in a tech field such as web design, engineering, manufacturing, or engineering sciences will help when looking for a position. If you have actual work experience in one of those related fields, that is even better: It can help your writing be more authentic.

Once you’ve gotten your degree, you can choose to get a certificate from one of the many technical writing certificate programs that are offered online. These certificate programs are meant to strengthen your writing skills and expand your knowledge in common areas tech writers work.

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AND ASSOCIATE DEGREES: OTHER VIABLE OPTIONS

Some tech writers might disagree with the bachelor’s degree route, as there are a couple of other options for education. Certificate and associate degree options both include similar curriculum. These routes are shorter in duration than a bachelor's degree, providing you only with the information you need to know.

There are also credential programs, which are voluntary. However, if you don't pursue a degree in the field, at the very least, it's highly recommended you get certified so you can compete in the technical writing world. Many community colleges, universities, and online programs offer certification courses for technical writing.

• The Society for Technical Writers: Here you can take online webinar courses, as well as get your certification. To be qualified to join the STW, you need a bachelor’s degree or five years tech writing experience.
• Procedures Professional Association: The PPA offers a writing certification program that requires the completion of this three-day program along with passing an exam.

HOW MUCH DO TECHNICAL WRITERS EARN?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that technical writers in 2022 earned an average salary of $86,760. Most work full time, and if there’s a hard deadline, they may work late into the evening.

Top Paying States for Technical Writers in 2022

WHAT'S IN STORE FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest data states that the demand for technical writers is expected to increase by 6 percent by 2031, which is as fast as the national average of all occupations. If you’re going into technical writing, and you have other skills that align with the industry, then you’ll have a higher chance of employment. Be warned though, there is stiff competition among freelance writers over available opportunities.

You know you want to write, and technical writing is a fantastic career choice. Get started by finding a school near you today!