Have you ever tried to follow instructions in a software program, only to end up more confused than when you started?
This often happens when instructions are not written clearly or when too many technical terms are used without explanation. Good technical writing helps solve this problem by making complex information easier to understand.
In this guide, you will learn what technical writing is, see practical examples, and discover a few simple tips to help you get started as a beginner technical writer.
What is Technical Writing?
Technical writing is the process of writing complex information into easy-to-understand content. However, the goal is not to sound complicated, but make things simple for the readers to understand.
Example
Instead of saying:
The application facilitates communication between users.
A technical writer will write:
The app allows users to send messages to each other.
In this example, the second sentence replaces the complex and formal terms (facilitates, communication) in sentence one, with direct verbs (allows, send). This makes the information easier for readers to understand.
The main goal of a technical writer is to turn complicated ideas into clear instructions that users can quickly follow.
Other Examples
Topic 1: How to Install a Mobile App
Complex Example
After downloading the application, execute the installation procedure and configure the settings appropriately.
This sounds too complex and unclear.
Simple Technical Writing Example
How to Install the App
- Open the Google Play Store
- Search for the app name
- Tap Install
- Wait for the download to finish
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions
This version works for three reasons:
- It uses numbered steps so readers can track their progress
- It uses plain, active verbs (tap, search, open) instead of vague ones (execute, configure)
- It speaks directly to the reader using "you"
These three habits: numbered steps, active verbs, second person voice are cornerstones of good technical writing.
Topic 2: Connecting to Wi-Fi
Complex Example
Establish a wireless network connection by opening the device network configuration interface, selecting the desired SSID and providing the correct security credentials.
Simple Technical Writing Example
Open Settings → Wi-Fi, select your network, enter the password and tap Connect.
The other example is preferable because it changed the technical jargon (establish, configuration, desired SSID) used to relatable verbs (open, select, enter). This process compressed the first example into simple instructions, which is the purpose of technical writing.
Where Technical Writing Is Used
Technical writing is used in many areas of technology, such as:
Software Documentation
These are guides that explain how software works and how to use it.
Example: A guide explaining how to use Microsoft Word or Zoom features.Product Manuals
Step-by-step instructions for setting up or using a product.
Example: A phone or blender manual.Tutorials and Guides
Instructions that teach users how to complete a task.
Example: How to create a Gmail account.Instructions for Developers
Instructions on how to use software tools, apps, or services.
Example: Using an API.Help Center Articles
Short articles that answer common questions or solve problems.Technical Blog Posts
Articles that explain technical topics in a simple way.
Tools Used for Technical Writing
When starting technical writing, some tools can make the process easier.
Markdown
A simple formatting language used for writing structured documents.Google Docs
Useful for drafting articles, editing content and collaborating.Grammarly
Helps check grammar, spelling and clarity.Notion
Helpful for organizing notes and writing ideas.Hashnode
A platform for writing and publishing technical blogs.Confluence
Used by companies for internal documentation.
If you're just starting out, begin with Google Docs and Grammarly. You can learn the others as you grow.
Tips for Beginners
1. Audience Awareness
Before you write a single sentence, ask yourself:
- Who will read this?
- What do they already know?
- What do they need to be able to do after reading this?
- What is the simplest way to explain this?
Knowing your audience is what separates useful technical writing from writing that just sounds technical.
2. Start with Easy Topics
Begin by picking simple tasks like:
- How to reset a password
- How to send an email
3. Avoid Hard Words
Use simple words everyone can understand.
Instead of:
Authenticate your credentials
Write:
Enter your username and password
4. Use Headings and Lists
Break your content into headings and lists.
Example: How to Take a Screenshot
- Press the Power and Volume Down buttons together
- Wait for the screen to flash
- Open your gallery to view the screenshot
5. Give Examples
Show how things work with short examples. Use step-by-step instructions or screenshots to improve understanding.
6. Practice Writing
Write short, simple guides regularly.
Create a mini-guide like:
How to share a file online
Try publishing it on a blog.
Conclusion
Practicing technical writing helps you communicate clearly, think logically, and solve problems step by step. It also builds a portfolio that shows your skills to potential employers or collaborators.
Start small. Pick any app or tool you use daily and write a step-by-step guide explaining how to use it.
Share it on dev.to and tag it #technicalwriting. The feedback you receive will accelerate your growth faster than writing in private.
The more you practice explaining technical topics clearly and simply, the better you will become.
Top comments (1)
Weldone 🥰