Engineering and science disciplines have utilized technical writers for decades. New industries such as nanotechnology and advanced climate science use technical writers to familiarize wide audiences with emerging concepts and technologies. With the emergence of cutting-edge technologies, technical writers are increasingly in demand. They are key in the understanding and communicating of dense material to many audiences.
The Facts
Technical writers are responsible for conveying complex technical material in a way that is understandable by audiences at different levels of expertise. The writers draft, write and edit text to explain scientific and technical concepts, products, theories and projects. Technical writers often specialize in a particular area, such as engineering, medicine, or health care. Technical writers may work for industry, writing for a specific company, may be employed by a communications agency, or may work on a freelance basis.
Misconceptions
The most common misconception about technical writers is that they write only manuals. In fact, technical writers deal with all forms of technical documents including websites, white papers, fact sheets, research reports, product release media, proposals and numerous other document types. Often, manuals and instructions form only a small percentage of the text written by technical writers. As a result, technical writers are usually well-versed in writing for multiple audiences and media types.
Function
A technical writer writes content and performs information design. The writer's main responsibility is to understand the target audience and to ensure that the text, images, graphics and layout work together to ensure the usability of each document. In order to do so, technical writers must develop an in-depth understanding of the subject matter. The writer gains this knowledge by researching, conducting interviews and gaining first-hand experience to be able to write materials for audiences at all levels of understanding.
Significance
The work of technical writers has particular significance, bridging the gap between subject matter experts and the public. The writers work with scientists and experts to understand and convey new, complex theories, research, or products, and to explain to the audience the significance and importance of the subject matter. Technical writers serve the function of an objective outside party with more insider knowledge than usual.
Type
While "technical writer' is the most commonly used job title, other titles may be scientific writer, communications associate, information designer, publications coordinator, health writer, technical documentation specialist, engineering writer, or documentation specialists. These writers can be found in every industry. Some technical writers may specialize in one form of media or document, while others are generalists. They may also serve other job functions, or may handle only a specific area of technical documentation, such as editing.
