Technical documentation isn’t just about writing—it’s about understanding. Clarity and structure are essential. However, these elements mean little if the documentation fails to support business needs. It must align with company objectives and serve its intended users...
Writing Process
Stop Making Technical Writing Suck
Technical writing often carries the perception of being dull, tedious, or merely a procedural requirement. Many organizations treat documentation as an afterthought—something to be completed, archived, and largely ignored until a problem arises. This approach not only...
Regulatory Compliance in Defense and Aerospace
Introduction Technical writers in the defense and aerospace industries play a critical role. They ensure that documentation complies with strict regulatory requirements. Adhering to regulations like ITAR, EAR, and NDA protocols ensures legal compliance, protects...
Mastering the Basics of English
A Foundation Anyone Can Fake, but Few Perfect Introduction Basic English is a skill I learned in elementary and high schools and then focus heavily on in college. In a practical sense, I’ve mastered it over the years. However, I acknowledge that in today’s world, it...
Why Storytelling is the Secret Weapon for Better Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Why Should You Care About Storytelling in Technical Manuals? When you think about storytelling, you probably imagine novels, movies, or even great marketing campaigns—but operations and maintenance (O&M) manuals? Not so much. However, storytelling isn’t just for...
How to Structure Step-by-Step Procedures in Technical Manuals for Maximum Clarity and Usability
Creating effective, clear procedures in a technical manual is essential for guiding users accurately and minimizing the chance of errors. While it may seem straightforward to write step-by-step instructions, many writers fall into the trap of combining too many...
Maximizing Productivity: Why Engineers Shouldn’t Double as Writers
Making the most of your team’s talent is crucial. Yet, many companies make the mistake of assigning engineers to tasks like technical writing. On the surface, it might seem like a cost-saving move. However, this approach often leads to wasted time. It also reduces...
How to Write a User Manual: Best Practices for Technical Writers
User manuals are critical tools for ensuring that users can operate a product efficiently and safely. Whether you're creating a manual for software, hardware, or consumer electronics, following best practices in technical writing will make your content clear, concise,...
How AI is Assisting in Modular Content Creation for Technical Writers
Modular content creation is an approach where content is broken down into smaller, reusable components. This method enhances efficiency, reduces redundancy, and ensures consistency across large-scale documentation projects. AI is playing a pivotal role in helping...