Have you ever wondered what copywriters mean by “technical writing?” Whether you’re a seasoned copywriter seeking to expand your skill set or a curious novice eager to explore new horizons, understanding technical writing can help us get a better understanding of complex subjects. Let’s jump right in and take a look.
So, What Is Technical Writing?
Technical writing is a specialized form of writing that communicates complex information to a specific audience. It is used in a variety of industries, including engineering, software development, healthcare, and finance.
At its core, technical writing serves as a bridge between subject matter experts and end-users, providing them with the necessary information to use, understand, or troubleshoot a product, system, or process effectively. It goes beyond simply conveying information; it focuses on organizing and presenting that information in a logical and user-friendly manner.
Who Needs Technical Writing?
As we mentioned above, brands in sectors with highly complicated services and products are going to need a technical writer. Preferably, this writer will be someone who knows their industry well. These sectors include, but are not limited to:
- Software development
- Hardware engineering
- Networking
- Database management
- Telecommunications
- Healthcare applications
- Finance and investments
Who Does Technical Writing?
Generally speaking, if you need technical writing, you’ll be working with a copywriter who has “niched down” into your related field. For example, let’s say you run a local, small financial institution and would like a blog series to drum up business for your new savings account. You would probably work with a finance copywriter who has multiple years of experience writing for other financial institutions.
This specific, detailed content is called “technical writing” and is best written by an experienced copywriter.
The Different Types of Technical Writing:
#1: User Manuals & Guides
These documents provide comprehensive instructions and information on how to use a product, service, or system effectively. User manuals and guides aim to simplify complex concepts into user-friendly language, enabling readers to navigate and operate a particular device or software with ease.
#2: Technical Reports
Technical reports present factual and detailed information about experiments, research findings, or investigations conducted in scientific, engineering, or technical fields. These reports often follow a specific structure and include sections such as introduction, methodology, results, analysis, and conclusion.
#3: White Papers
White papers are authoritative documents that explore a particular issue, technology, or trend in-depth. They aim to educate readers, provide insights, and offer solutions or recommendations based on research and analysis. White papers are commonly used in industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare.
#4: Policies and Procedures
These documents outline the guidelines, rules, and standard operating procedures within an organization. Policies clarify expectations and provide instructions on how to handle specific situations, while procedures offer step-by-step instructions for carrying out tasks or processes efficiently and consistently.
#5: Online Help and Documentation
This type of technical writing is focused on creating online resources, such as help files, FAQs, knowledge bases, and tutorials, to assist users in troubleshooting issues, understanding functionalities, and maximizing the potential of software, applications, or websites.
#6: Grant Proposals
Grant proposals are persuasive documents written to secure funding for research, projects, or initiatives. They typically outline the goals, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes of the proposed endeavor, along with a detailed budget and justification for financial support.
#7: Scientific and Academic Papers
Scientific and academic writing involves producing research papers, articles, or studies for publication in journals or scholarly platforms. This type of technical writing adheres to specific citation styles, emphasizes objectivity, and follows a formal structure to present original research and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
What Skills Are Needed for Technical Writers?
Technical writing requires a balance of technical expertise and writing skills. A technical writer must possess a solid understanding of the subject matter they are addressing and be able to translate complex concepts into clear and concise language, without sacrificing accuracy or integrity. They must also consider the needs, expectations, and background of the target audience to ensure that the content is relevant, engaging, and accessible to them.
Furthermore, technical writing often involves utilizing various tools and formats to enhance comprehension. These may include diagrams, illustrations, charts, graphs, or interactive elements that aid in visualizing and clarifying information.
The use of consistent terminology, logical organization, and appropriate formatting are also essential aspects of technical writing to facilitate understanding and usability.
How to Find a Technical Writer for Your Brand:
Finding a technical writer that fits your brand can be difficult — especially if you aren’t already working with a copywriter that you like. Here are a few tips for you if you’re looking for a technical writer:
- Define your requirements for yourself and your brand. This will help you as you sift through writers that may or may not jive with your expectations. Consider factors such as industry expertise, subject matter knowledge, writing style, and any specialized skills or software proficiency that may be necessary for your brand.
- See if you can get any referrals or recommendations. Within your network, is there anyone you know or trust to give you recommendations? See what they think.
- When you find someone, see if they have any examples of work they’ve done in your field. Review their portfolio or samples of their work.
- Interview your writer! Speak directly to them about your brand to see if you’re a good fit. Most copywriters will only select clients that are a good fit for them, too!
- Be clear on pricing and terms. Make sure everything about your relationship with your writer is clear and that the pricing works for everyone.
- Start with a trial project. If possible, start with a small trial project before committing to a long-term arrangement.
Are you looking for a technical writer? I hope these tips helped you determine whether you need a technical writer or a blog writer. If you need the latter, hit me up! Let’s stock your business blog reel with SEO content!
Until next time,
