Definition:
Written communications done on the job, especially in fields with specialized vocabularies, such as science, engineering, technology, and the health sciences. See also:
- Business Writing
- What Is the "You Attitude"?
- Top Ten Editing Tips for Business Writers
- How to Write a Professional Email
- Twelve Tips for Improving Online Writing
- Ten Quick Tips to Improve Your Writing
- Proofreading Tips
Observations:
- "The goal of technical writing is to enable readers to use a technology or understand a process or concept. Because the subject matter is more important than the writer's voice, technical writing style uses an objective, not a subjective, tone. The writing style is direct and utilitarian, emphasizing exactness and clarity rather than elegance or allusiveness. A technical writer uses figurative language only when a figure of speech would facilitate understanding."
(Gerald J. Alred, et al., Handbook of Technical Writing, Bedford/St. Martin's, 2006) - Here are the main characteristics of technical writing:
- Purpose: Getting something done within an organization (completing a project, persuading a customer, pleasing your boss, etc.)
- Your knowledge of topic: Usually greater than that of the reader.
- Audience: Often several people, with differing technical backgrounds.
- Criteria for Evaluation: Clear and simple organization of ideas, in a format that meets the needs of busy readers.
- Statistical and graphic support: Frequently used to explain existing conditions and to present alternative courses of action.
