Usability: Think in terms of scenarios
When you design a user interface, it helps to think in terms of the scenarios instead of tasks. A task is simply a major or minor event that needs to…
My current technical writing toolset
Ten years ago, most of these tools would not have been on my list. Only Microsoft Office, WordPress, Acrobat, and Notepad have remained in my toolset over the past ten…
How Technical Writers use Microsoft Visio
For the past two weeks, I have been fixing FrameMaker document graphics. The problem is that the graphics contained in those documents do not conform to company standards in multiple…
How Much Money Does a Technical Writer Make?
Discussing money is always difficult when it comes to jobs. People tend to exaggerate (and sometimes downplay) how much money they make. Also, because of the variation in benefits, a…
The Technical Writing FAQ
What are the primary skills of a technical writer? The first skill a technical writer should have, of course, is writing. You should be able to write in a clear,…
How to get started as a technical writer in 30 days
Who you are If you’re reading this, then I am going to assume three things about you: If those don’t apply to you, then this may not be the right…
What major or degree is best for becoming a technical writer?
There are no specific degree requirements for a position in technical writing. Many technical writers have writing-related degrees such as English, creative writing, or journalism. Others have degrees in fields…
How to Write a How-To Article
What is a how-to article? A how-to article helps the reader to accomplish a specific task. This may be a technical task such as loading a new computer application, a…