Technical writers can come from various backgrounds, including technical fields or traditional writing. A degree in technical communication or a related field is preferred, but experience can be more important for freelancers. Certification and knowledge of software are also beneficial, and job opportunities can be found through online job boards and professional organizations.
There are several ways to become a technical writer. Many people get into technical writing from a technical field such as engineering or computer science. Others have backgrounds in traditional writing, with a background in English or communications. Most employers expect a technical writer to have a degree, usually in technical communication or a specific scientific or technological field, but this is not always necessary. A freelance writer, in particular, can be judged more on experience than education.
Someone who wants to become a technical writer should at least consider getting a relevant degree or certification. An English degree may be enough to get you one step ahead, but technical communication classes or significant experience in a technical field can help significantly. A degree in journalism or technical communications would also be a good foundation. An excellent background for a technical writer would be a combination of a degree or experience in a technical field and classes in writing or communication.
Certification through a college, university or professional organization may also be desirable. There are several certificate programs available through local or regional institutions and online. Not all are legitimate; therefore, anyone who wants to become a technical writer by earning a certification should check out the certification program thoroughly before applying.
In addition to technical knowledge and writing skills, a technical writer should generally have experience using certain software. There are many software packages used in technical writing, from word processing software to help authoring tools (HATs). Many technical writing positions also require knowledge of graphics software, desktop publishing (DTP) applications, or markup languages such as XML or LaTeX. It would be beneficial for a person working to become a technical writer to learn how to use at least some of these tools.
The best way to become a technical writer is to apply for a job in technical writing. Technical writing jobs are advertised almost anywhere other writing jobs are posted, especially on online job boards aimed at writers and freelancers. Newspapers often list local vacancies for jobs in technical communication.
Editorial and research assistants often move into technical writing jobs, so beginners may want to keep an eye out for opportunities in these positions. Professional organizations such as the Society for Technical Communication (STC) – an international organization for technical communicators – maintain extensive job boards for their members. Some of these jobs are only advertised within the organization; therefore membership is definitely a plus for job seekers.
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