TECHNICAL WRITING BEGINNERS // Advice and Resources

Technical Writing Portfolio Workshop: www.techwritin...
Alternative link for folks based in India: rzp.io/l/techw...
Resources mentioned in the video:
(Book) Modern Technical Writing by Andrew Etter: www.amazon.com...
(Blog) I'd Rather Be Writing by Tom Johnson: idratherbewrit...
(Podcast) 10 Min Tech Comm: www.stitcher.c...
Mega-thread on Reddit: / read_this_before_askin...
Tools:
Confluence: www.atlassian....
Snagit: www.techsmith....
GitHub: github.com/
Markdown: en.wikipedia.o...
Python: www.python.org/
#technicalwriting #beginners

[@sophialehmer-peasley9019]

You just broke down a career so incredibly well. I can't thank you enough for this concise, wonderful video. Super helpful for someone interested in Technical Writing and even with other resources. THANK YOU SO MUCH!

[@Travellholik]

I loved the content and clarity. I am trying to move on from my current role to a tech writer role and your channel is really helping me to connect the dots. Thanks a ton !!

[@Dakotagirl823]

Very helpful. I'm working on an associate degree in Web Design and would like to get a certificate in Technical Writing through the Society of Technical Communication. I have an interest in technical writing because I like learning about technology and helping people learn more about it.

[@amnarajput1811]

Hi from where are you learning content writting

[@pacerlegal9172]

Thanks for the helpful videos. I'm transitioning from being a paralegal into tech writing. You provide a lot of insight into the field and what is needed to be successful.

[@Jamiher825]

This was very helpful. I finished my BA in English just before the pandemic started and have struggled to find opportunities in my desired field of education. A friend suggested looking into technical writing because I enjoy teaching as well as writing. After watching this video, I feel that I have a good start on researching if it would be a good fit for me. Thank you!

[@kuromiii444]

I got my BA in English Lit right when the pandemic started too! Originally planned on teaching English abroad (in S.Korea) but the pandemic really put that on hold and I've been working the same front desk job for the last 3 years and now looking into technical writing :)

[@KittyKits-ju8vz]

Your speaking and explaining is so clear and easy to follow! I absolutely love your videos. Really great job! I'm a UX Writer casually dipping into the field of technical writing and your videos seem to be a great source for learning. Thank you so much!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Aww, thank you! Glad the videos are helpful :)

[@izayahuche2358]

Great teachers know how to simplify complex subjects to a basic level where they are within the grasp of everyday people. Extremely helpful. Succinct: direct to the point. Thank you

[@gaurimk24]

Agreed 💯

[@commansehatke]

You are so good. I have been following you for so long now and love the truth in you!!!

[@ananddeshpande6199]

Very informative, short but to the point and no unnecessary information. As I am looking to switch over and find career during my retirement, this could be best option. But as you rightly said, after considering and analyzing all points. Thanks once more for detailed guidance.

[@merpatimerpati]

Thank you so much, your channel is like mindfulness as I feel my brain becoming much more relaxed just from your clarity and well-organised content.

[@crabbypinchy]

This is very helpful. I've been performing documentation as a tech writer for 15 years and I haven't been able to get more into techie writing. Thank you, I need to stay on top of this.

[@avijeetshastry]

Hi Amruta, this an extremely helpful video. You have addressed all possible questions and the sources listed by you to get further information and insights is a huge bonus. Thank you!

[@-rstasiuk7381]

Confidence inspiring. Thank you. That was the little push I needed to hear.

[@andrewcharlesmoss]

Excellent video - you made some great points!

[@fredericbouchard8840]

This is amazing information, thanks a lot! I'm considering technical writing as a carer change and you answered many of the questions I have in a very pragmatic and actionable way. And your reading suggestions are a big help in knowing where to start. Thanks again!

[@akritikulshreshtha177]

Hello, were you able to successfully transition to a tech writer? I'm on the similar journey, I've few years experience as a developer but new to tech writing. Should i apply as a fresher for this role or experienced?

[@fredericbouchard8840]

​@@akritikulshreshtha177 yes I did! I actually found the perfect hybrid position where I was both doing writing but also development. I built automation for many of their tasks (SEO, accessibilty, etc) and helped them migrate to docs-as-code using Git and Markdown (they were exclusively in MadCap Flare before). I would suggest to you as well: I think there's value in bringing your development experience in a tech writer role. It gives you an edge in talking to SMEs, but can even help automate your writing too! If you have years of experience already, particularly in tech, then I don't believe you should market yourself as a "fresher". BTW - I would advise you try to find all the ways possible to incorporate AI in your work (I try to do that myself). I fear anyone not doing so will quickly become obsolete. Oh and build yourself a portfolio, either on open-source projects or even fictional apps - all interviewers request that. Hope that helps!

[@snehalpatil3433]

The way you explain everything is so genuine and sweet thank you it was very helpful.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Aw, thank you!!

[@Rayanjai]

This is exactly what I need as I think about a career change. Thank you so much for your advice!

[@l.salevi]

This is so helpful and is seriously saving me tons of money and time. I now have a better idea of how I want to go about transitioning into this career. No better teacher than experience!

[@tochithevoice]

So how has the journey being so far?

[@ChampaAinjel]

I would say that my reasons for being interested in becoming a Technical Writer are that I have an innate NEED to simply and effectively convey instructions on any given subject that will be instructing the proper use of a procedure or product. I have been observed to be a bit of a perfectionist and I enjoy researching and writing and am generally much better at it when I've got a specific subject matter to dive into. But, I have no college experience at all and I do not personally consider myself tech savvy.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Oh, if you enjoy deep-diving into a complex topic and simplifying it for others, you should definitely consider a career in tech writing. As for not considering yourself tech-savvy, you can work towards improving your comfort with technology. This video might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faXNlKuchMSVgas Also, tech writing isn't limited to the field of technology -- you can look into science writing, medical writing, or legal writing -- any field that deals with complex technical concepts will have a demand for good writers. Good luck!

[@L3SB15n]

I am in a very similar boat as you. It is a big reason why I pursed a bachelor's in education. I no longer want to be a high school teacher and I think tech writing would work with my strengths and interests.

[@ericmeyer8013]

I really like that big painting on the wall. Good video too.

[@inameicucme]

Great info. I think its more important to know what are the crucial questions to ask the development team and get all required info for the documentations. That's more useful and practical than taking an expensive certification course to learn about a tool instead.

[@jenmanzella1948]

I am currently working as a Software Engineer, developing microsystems for a cloud storage OS. However, I really enjoy the craft of writing. I find that I enjoy communicating complex technical concepts through a written lesson plan more than I enjoy implementing seemingly random fixes and features. I have written formal process and design documentation. We shuffle teams so frequently that each time we master a new part of the API, we are moved to a completely new part of the system. The system is so vast and complex that it can take time to become familiar with every part of the infrastructure. I admire a challenge as long as it has some personal meaning to me. Improving my ability to write will help me achieve the goal of finishing the novel I wish to eventually share. I'd have the opportunity to practice using formatting languages like LaTex and continue to utilize source control but the ask wouldn't be overwhelming. I'd have some time after work to pursue the education plan that I've always wanted to follow, learn about the topics I'm interested in, and read. I have kept a daily journal since a young age. Writing is my favorite hobby and I feel it could make my career much more satisfying. Do you have any advice for those interested in transitioning out of Software Engineering into Technical Writing?

[@AmrutaRanade]

I'd recommend building a portfolio -- the process will help you figure out if you like the actual practice of technical writing or just the idea of it. Also, tech writing is not the same as creative writing, so I don't think it'll help you achieve your goal of finishing a novel. Good luck!

[@vedangdamle1758]

Feels like I got everything I needed. Thanks Amruta.

[@deepakirana3897]

Hi, I liked the way you put together all the right information in 10 mins. Im a Technical Writer. I liked the tools you recommended. Look forward for more such videos.

[@AmrutaRanade]

It's in the works! Stay tuned :)

[@sonalimahajan8960]

What are most popular tools for technical writing

[@sonalimahajan8960]

Kindly Suggest any company that provides internship

[@OrostamNigeria]

Great insight! Incredibly helpful Looking forward to testing my writing skills on ‘do you know tech’

[@amolketkar1458]

Hi, super info , have two Qs (1) Any specific reason why you mentioned Python should be learned ? (2) someone coming from Non IT academic background, how to quickly grasp IT tech fundamentals ? ( 3) What is future of DITA for next 5 odd years ?

[@AmrutaRanade]

This video is 4 years old, so some information is outdated. I don't think it's necessary to learn Python anymore. Not sure DITA will be around in 5 years either

[@SammyDollxo]

@@AmrutaRanadeDo you still recommend learning a programming language?

[@AmrutaRanade]

@@SammyDollxo Not really. I think it couldn't hurt to learn a programming language if you have the time and resources, but not a requirement for tech writers.

[@mdbaron871]

Amruta, thank you so much for this video. I'm doing research to see if this is a possible path for myself. I really appreciate the info and the questions that you offer. I look forward to watching more. : )

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the video was helpful! In case you haven't already, you might want to check out this video next: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnLFZZ9mgaunjZo

[@SvitlanaTuchynska]

thanks for all your work, Amruta! i have been a newspaper journalist and an editor for the travel company for almost 15 years and have just started my new job two weeks ago as a full time tech writer in a multinational company. it is anything but boring! at least for now))

[@tochithevoice]

Is the transitioning now worth it?

[@amrutaphansalker]

So well made! As usual, another helpful video from you. :)

[@Xplanator]

Just the information I was looking out for!

[@harshakohli1407]

It's pleasure to listen the way you explain

[@sekharamdola]

Excellent. Quite useful and fair delivery to the aspiring! Many thanks.

[@ilangoven5517]

Thank you. That was very helpful to someone like me getting started with Technical writing

[@subhasree2482]

Did u become a tech writer?

[@danielacker7085]

Great video! Thank you for all of the resources you gave. Cheers!

[@ashleynuckols6268]

I am considering a career change and am somewhat interested in technology and I really like writing. My favorite part of graduate school was researching and writing essays and conducting studies. I do not have any job experience as a tech writer. What kind of jobs should I apply for and what kind of research should I do before I begin applications? Can I use material from graduate school to compile a writing portfolio? Thank you so much! Your videos have answered a lot of questions I had upon considering tech writing!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hi! I recommend starting here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnLFZZ9mgaunjZo and then reading this incredible subreddit thread: www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/comments/bomlrj/read_this_before_asking_about_salaries_what/

[@mahnoorbashir7963]

Extremely helpful video, most practical information shared with so much clarity. Thanks a lot dear for your contribution..

[@qd8wl]

Is always useful if you activate automatic subtitles, so we can watch the video without voice when we are in the street or with othe people and don't want to use headphones. Thanks.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Oh, I had that enabled by default for all videos! Wonder if KZbin changed the global settings. Thanks for letting me know! Will look into it :)

[@AmrutaRanade]

Following up: The automatic subtitles are on by default, but they only show up for some videos and not for others :( I'm contacting Creator Support to learn how to fix it.

[@johngoodallsmith4357]

Thank you Amruta - very well presented.

[@kavithaganessane1798]

I don't know why it took this long for me to even know about the term technical writing. I am a civil engineer by graduation, after moving out of country I wanted to change my carrier for long nearly twenty years of experience in that industry, but always longed to work in software company, and I realised about technical writing now grew interest in this after watching this video. You are really doing a great job. Thank you very much. Please could you guide me more . Will be of great help to me thanks.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the videos are helpful :) Since I don't have the bandwidth for 1:1 guidance, I recommend checking out this subreddit to connect with other tech writers: www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/

[@kavithaganessane1798]

@@AmrutaRanade thank you so much

[@boujiquejoel8645]

Thank you so much for sharing your rich insights. I'm new to technical writing but I've been in the web writing space for a while. Technical Writing is definitely something I'd want to do full time because I love writing about technologies a little more than I enjoy building them. This video has been a really great resource for me. Thanks again

[@buffplums]

Thank you so much for this. I found it very enlightening. I’m an experienced electronics who has done a lot of work as a lecturer, instructor and technical trainer on complex communication and radar systems. I have written a lot of course material based upon traditional presentation format but also written a few technical instruction manuals and also a subject matter 97 page introduction to Radio Frequency principles. I am thinking of getting into tech writing in the subjects that I am familiar with and although when I was working in my actual training roles I was aware of the requirements but I have no experience of doing it as a solo entity. I’d be very interested in hearing from anyone from a similar background who has done this?

[@VFrame]

What authoring tool do you use in CC labs?

[@sanjay_dutta]

I really appreciate your videos. Quite informative. Thanks Amruta.

[@shikhashukla1565]

Thank you so much. Your videos are very clear and informative. Thanks again!!!!!!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the videos are helpful!

[@rajendermicro9770]

Can you please mention Courses for general technical writing, other than software engineer

[@igeats2721]

can you please make a full video on how to make a software documentation?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Stay tuned :)

[@prashantmehetre5023]

Technical writing or seo which one should I persue after 8 months of my content writing job?

[@themindhealer6912]

Really awesome video learned a lot! Can u share a video on creating style guides?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Thanks! I've a style guides video planned but haven't had the bandwidth to work on it. Soon, hopefully!

[@vrushalic725]

AWESOME...almost all questions answered like u were reading my mind... god bless u ... good luck

[@muffinatordlux]

God bless you too :)

[@jayanth807]

Hi could you please make a video on SMTD and how to review a SMTD.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hi..I don't know what SMTD is.

[@jayanth807]

@@AmrutaRanade System Maintenance technical Document. I have couple of doubts what are steps to look into while reviewing a techincal document.

[@AmrutaRanade]

I am not familiar with System maintenance tech docs. Sorry!

[@mgkk10]

Hi Amruta, Thanks a lot for the insights. I am a tech writer and I use ms word mostly at my present organization . I had the feeling that am missing on tech writing tools and was planning for a course to learn tools. Thanks for the wisdom you shared. Can you share more knowledge about types of tech writing please.

[@AmrutaRanade]

This might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJrSlKV5rZqHlc0

[@oyeedraw8407]

I transitioned from animation to tech writing one and a half year ago and this is a very helpful summary of resources to expand my knowledge. Thank you for sharing!

[@v.s.anandhreddy9410]

Good. Very useful expression of technical writing.

[@lisas1438]

Incredibly helpful!! Thank you!!

[@redroguerouge]

I'm curious. Would really appreciate if you could answer this question - How is learning Python helpful for a tech writer?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Depends on what types of docs you want to work on. If you want to write developer docs, you might need to write sample code as well (example: www.cockroachlabs.com/docs/stable/build-a-python-app-with-cockroachdb.html), and Python is one of the most used/easier-to-learn languages IMO.

[@akarshkb8740]

Thanks for recommending the book.

[@seracherian2166]

Hi Amruta, As a technical writer, I enjoy learning from your videos a lot. I'm trying to find answers to a technical writing question. It's related to release notes. Let's say I publish the release notes for a specific product release version. However the release is rolled back because of other reasons - ex: lots of bugs. Do I remove the release notes? Or do I add a notice mentioning what actually happened? Interested to know what you would do in a case like this. Thanks.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hmm this is more of a Product/Marketing decision, so I'd ask them what they want to do in this case.

[@sruthinambiar2701]

Hi. So I have worked as a content writer, creative writer and copywriter. I recently learned about technical writing and have been intrigued by it. Could you direct me?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hi! Almost everything I know about tech writing is documented on this channel. Additionally, I have a tech writing workshop you might want to check out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX-4kKOpnd2ApMU

[@shruti2008]

Hi Amruta, first I would like to thank you for providing your personal insights about technical writing and tools. Secondly, are you looking at bringing out more of such series as I have some questions and what would be the best way to reach out to you discuss them :). If possible.

[@AmrutaRanade]

I am planning a Tech Writing 101 series about my writing process. Also happy to answer questions here in the comments.

[@archana55555]

It's was a very nice video to give a right direction. Thx

[@sandelarshi6585]

Hi Amruta, Thank u so much for this video its really help full for me as a beginner in technical writer.

[@anshumandcjoshi6424]

Hey, Amruta. Thank you so much for making this video. I have recently started out as a technical writer and I'm looking to build my resume. I have a lot of doubts and I was wondering if you could clear some of them? - Does having language certification for different languages which have practical use like French and Italian affect my resume in any way? - I jumped into tech writing straight after college and this is my first ever experience. But I am working in an Offshore Delivery Centre so my work sample is mostly copyright protected. Do i need to build up my portfolio in a different way? - Does a start in tech writing makes it feasible for me to permeate into any other field like analytics should I aim to pursue a masters? My questions might seem haywire but they're only indicative to how very less I know at the moment. Any response would be helpful, please and thank you.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hey! Congratulations on the new job! - IMO, language certifications don't add much value to your resume. However, I might not be the right person to answer this question since I haven't worked on any localization projects so far. The people in this subreddit might be able to help you out: www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/ - To build your portfolio, the common recommendation is to contribute docs to open source projects. An easier approach is to create writing samples for processes/things you are familiar with. For example, if I was building my portfolio, I would write a tutorial about using GitHub as a documentation platform or a how-to guide for making KZbin videos. - Tech writing doesn't lead directly or isn't a prerequisite for a career in analytics per se, but I personally believe that it can help you develop transferable skills like analytical thinking and writing. Hope this helps!

[@PatrickMcDade-jl4jc]

Can I get some clarity between being a "technical writer" and being a "tech writer"?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Not much difference -- The titles can mostly be used interchangeably. The only difference I know of is that Tech Journalists are often called Tech Writers, and that's a whole different profession than technical writing

[@avinashshukla6183]

A big thank you🙃

[@jhadinger]

Great info and most importantly, amazing next steps for people curious about getting into the field. One question though is, it sounds like you define technical writing solely within the sphere of technology or "tech," was that intentional? My understanding is that technical writing is much broader and can incorporate writing about any high-level, specialized topic: finance, real estate, etc. Would love your thoughts! Thanks.

[@AmrutaRanade]

I do define technical writing within the sphere of tech bc that's what I specialize in :) I prefer not to speak on subjects I have no experience in, hence the lack of content about other forms of technical writing.

[@learnchinesewithyanhuaandk8903]

Well structured speech, very helpful! Thank you 😊

[@nancykohli2708]

Hi mam today i am watching this video. Really informative vdo. My question is this what type of thing i learn for tech writting bcz i starts from base Plz guide me

[@rahulhalder7043]

Hi! Amruta, I have just gone through this video, I feel that I need to talk to you as I am seeing some hope after searching lots about technical writing for last six months. For last 6 years I have been working as a Project Manager where mostly I engaged in product/service delivery management, system analysis, and writing documents like user manual of the end product for the end users. Now recently I need to write a technical document on the framework and on how the end product being developed for the new comers / junior s/w developers. I am a software engineer too, but want to know the techniques to write a technical document step by step, can you please help me?

[@AmrutaRanade]

I recommend these resources: kzbin.info/aero/PLoynTxuTLXaBs05-A4rlEC9ijs9ZzSxRP, developers.google.com/tech-writing/overview, documentation.divio.com/

[@rahulhalder7043]

@@AmrutaRanade Many thanks Amruta :)

[@smk9320]

Thanks! This was a great video. What's the best way to seek an "internship" with a company possibly in order to get some experience? Is it something that employers are even open to?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Yep! Google "technical writing internships"!

[@cruciiiii90]

Best best video ever. So informative 👏

[@jingling81]

Hi Amruta! Thanks for such a helpful video. I wanted to ask about the last question you answered. If I am interested in user documentation over developer documentation, does this mean I should ONLY focus on tools like Confluence and Snagit instead of Github, Markdown, and Python? Or is it more like I should still know all 5 types, but the first 2 take priority? Thanks!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hmmm..excellent question. I think my answer has evolved since the time this video was published. I think it certainly wouldn't hurt to know GitHub and Markdown as they have gained more traction as doc tools even for user documentation. Not necessarily must-know but definitely good-to-know. Hope that helps!

[@jingling81]

@@AmrutaRanade Thanks so much! These are all so foreign to me. I'll slowly work through the how to videos on all of them haha. And thanks for your comments on whether a certification is important. I was JUST going to look into some through some university extension programs. Since that video, would you still agree that it's not necessary at all as long as you have a portfolio built up?

[@AmrutaRanade]

@@jingling81 Yes, I do think you don't _need_ a certificate to land a job. If it's affordable and from a good university, it couldn't hurt to have one but not necessarily worth taking on student debt tbh

[@sanjuk-r5z]

Thanks for such a great informative video.

[@susielizziej]

Thank you for the resources in this video!

[@anupamajnair6849]

Hi Mam, Can you please mention the tools here in comments for( UI, Developer, deployment documents).. So that I can make a note on it. Kindly reply me. Thankyou.

[@AmrutaRanade]

kzbin.infobtC6KFXtRfM?feature=share

[@anupamajnair6849]

Mam thanks for your response. I am a beginner... When i viewed the link you have shared, i assumed that these were some tools pertaining to tech writing ... Please correct me if I am wrong... Since I am a beginner will go through the links shared from your end in this video .. I have started to self learn tech writing with the support of your videos.. Thanks for your videos... And support..

[@anupamajnair6849]

Mam can i get a free link for Andrew Etter's book on tech write? Is it available? Please reply.

[@AmrutaRanade]

@@anupamajnair6849 I don't think it's available for free

[@AmrutaRanade]

@@anupamajnair6849 Good luck!

[@ryankelley2714]

Very helpful video and resources. Thank you!

[@ParthSIR.]

Question: i am an engineer, and just like you said in the beginning, i have been a student who always used to write reports, do literature research, prepare presentation, i have finished my bachelor's and masters degree now, all throughout i had to do literature research and prepare my Thesis report, i don't have a professional tech experience, all i have are these documentations, knowledge of tools & passion for tech writing..i have been applying for position but probably because i don't have a background i am not able to break in, can you give me a tip how to get in as a fresher and not excatly from this field.. P.s. I personally have experience of what goes in to researching, documenting, deleting, reducing, increasing, simplifying as a technical writer while writing two Thesis, and 2 projects in my carrier..i am not here because it's easy, I'm here because i love it. Any suggestions appreciated, thank you Miss.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hey! Thanks for the detailed comment..from the text, I can see your writing skills need some improvement. Maybe that's one of the reasons you haven't been able to break into the field? I recommend working on your English language skills before trying to get interviews.

[@ParthSIR.]

@@AmrutaRanade Noted, Thankyou.

[@saranyadev2583]

Thank you so much for the informations, which I was searching 😍😍

[@swathichennai8580]

Very helpful video and you are really extraordinary in explaining in a easy way. I really admired ur speech mam..cool nd awesome...

[@jaiminpatel8132]

Very useful video & very helpful for beginners like me! Awesome video! thank you so much for making all these videos. Good luck

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the videos are helpful!

[@bjoebos3107]

I want to change career fields from an aircraft mechanic to a Technical Writer, how do I go about this?

[@AmrutaRanade]

I am not the best person to answer your question since my experience is limited to the software industry. This Reddit forum might be a better place to ask for guidance: www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/

[@bjoebos3107]

Thank you! You’re doing a great job with your videos and the sharing of your ideas and knowledge. Keep up he awesome work!

[@kumarsumant2878]

Hi, I've been working as a technical writer, I enjoyed writing, But I'm looking to change into software documentation. can you suggest how my previous exp can be of any help. I see recruiters hesitant on Aerospace exp employees,

[@AmrutaRanade]

I don't have any insights into moving from tech writing to software dev. Sorry!

[@kumarsumant2878]

@@AmrutaRanade No, you misunderstood. I was working as a technical writer for aerospace sector, now I want to get into software technical writing/user manual or some other form of documentation. The work was related but still a bit different.

[@kumarsumant2878]

@@AmrutaRanade if you can give me insights on that, it'll be very helpful. As in, how it's done, what should I focus more on etc. It'll be very helpful.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Ah..I see. Are you allowed to use the content you created at the previous job? If yes, can you convert it into a how-to guide or a tutorial? If not, you can create a tech writing how-to guide for any software you use. Also probably learn python or other language. And definitely learn GitHub.

[@kumarsumant2878]

@@AmrutaRanade thanks a lot for sharing and your time. 😍

[@akshay1542]

Love this video. Love from India.

[@MrWhiskersTallEars]

Very nice and practical advice. Just wanted to say the link to the Modern Technical Writing book is broken now. And, also, I almost spit my coffee out at your comment of poorly designed websites! I love coming across something last updated with Frontpage in the 90s.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Thanks for letting me know!! Fixed the link :)

[@usp6097]

Hi, I am working as academic, blog, article writer. I am a biotechnology and clinical research professional. Currently, I am trying to progress my career towards technical writing. Could you pls guide how should I proceed as my application get rejected saying it's not a relevant profile for technical writer.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Academic writing is not the same as technical writing. To apply for a tech writing position, I recommend building a tech writing portfolio: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX-4kKOpnd2ApMU

[@usp6097]

@@AmrutaRanade thanks Amruta

[@svaerdman]

Hi, Can you elaborate on why a programming language is useful to learn for Tech Writing? I'm considering going in to the career but am not to keep on programming alot although I have some experience in it from my engineering degree.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Programming knowledge helps me communicate with my developer audience. It helps me understand their requirements and write effective docs for them. But that's because I write developer docs for a very technical audience. If you choose to work on UI docs/end-user docs, programming knowledge might not be a pre-requisite. This video might help you understand the distinction better: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJrSlKV5rZqHlc0

[@valeriabalogh2122]

Thank you for this wonderful content! It really helped me a lot. Do you think that a bachelors degree in journalism, experience in academic writing, creative writing, translating, and a keen interest in research and learning new stuff is a good go to become a technical writer? Thank you.

[@AmrutaRanade]

I think so! I recommend writing some tech-specific content to make sure you enjoy it and if you do, you can add it to your portfolio.

[@valeriabalogh2122]

@@AmrutaRanade I'll do just that! Thank you so much! I will be following your videos ❤️

[@meenakshigirgas8942]

Hi Amruta,I need to interview for my technical writing course assignment,can you help?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Unfortunately, I don't have the bandwidth for 1:1 conversations. The helpful folks at www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/ might be able to help you out. Good luck!

[@meenakshigirgas8942]

Thank you

[@progamers2607]

It was nice listening to you and great info, my question is I was into GIS (geographical Information System) as a group leader for around 15yrs and now the field is sleeping (No Projects), I have done a lot of documentation for my GIS projects (preparing Checklist, training) during my tenure. Companies only require young people who are 25-30 yrs who can work in the night shift,, I left the job last year as the company is not giving a salary. I am doing nothing at present, can I get into technical writing for a career change (Now I am 48 yrs old). Your suggestions would be highly appreciated.

[@AmrutaRanade]

I would suggest you start with small freelancing projects to see if you like the work. If you do, you might want to find tech writing projects in your field instead of software.

[@progamers2607]

Thanks for immediate reply, i have tried with freelancer.com, and other sites but could not get any work

[@AmrutaRanade]

@@progamers2607 Oh, that's unfortunate. I am very hesitant to say keep trying because I don't know if that'll actually yield results. I think the best bet would be to find tech writing projects in your field since you have an established background there. Good luck!

[@travellingisfun670]

hey hi I m MBA graduate i like the concept of technical writing...but after 7 years gap i m confused what to do...i went with one course to understand this Writing skill...but as per your explanation i feel that i did mistake i went with tools...those guys did not teach me anything.....i m commerce graduate and seriously confused how to start career in this field. PLEASE HELP ME

[@AmrutaRanade]

I recommend starting here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnLFZZ9mgaunjZo

[@skykee444]

HEY. THANKS FOR THIS VIDEO IT WAS VERY INSIGHTFUL. I DO HAVE A QUESTION THOUGH AS A PERSON WHO STRUGGLES WITH COMMUNICATION DO YOU THINK ITS A GOOD IDEAL TO GO INTO TECHNICAL WRITING?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the video was helpful! To answer your question, I'd have found this field stressful and not enjoyable if I struggled with communication.

[@tvmrobinson]

Thank you so much ..

[@dikshadhoundiyal8499]

Would appreciate your online course for the same subject!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Here you go! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX-4kKOpnd2ApMU

[@NirajSingh-sy3et]

Hi @Amruta, can you please suggest some good colleges in US for MS in Technical Writing and the courses come under STEM domain?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Texas Tech and Missouri S&T are two that I know of. Honestly, it's been a while since I've looked into it..google would be a better resource than me.

[@SD-nd9yi]

Precise & Informative .. Thankful to you

[@natalialiubasiuk415]

Hi Amruta, thanks a lot for this video. You mentioned some tools for technical writers, but I'm curious if it's also necessary to know such as Indesign or Figma? Do you use them?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hi! Yes, I use Figma when I am working with the UX projects with the Design team. The Product Designer used Figma to create design mocks with placeholder microcopy and I edit the microcopy in the Figma file. (I should probably do a UX Writing followup video. Thanks for the prompt!)

[@natalialiubasiuk415]

@@AmrutaRanade It'd be really great! I'd like to hear about other tools you use for that. And one more thing that I'm interested in is onboarding tutorials for users. There's a lot of information on the internet about this, but this information is too general. Maybe you can recommend some good resources and tools. Thank you.

[@AmrutaRanade]

Excellent suggestions! I don't have the bandwidth to work on them right now, but added them to my to-do list :)

[@dazyann010501]

If I wanted to do Medical Technical Writing, where should I start? Thank you!

[@AmrutaRanade]

Unfortunately, I have no experience with Medical Writing. Sorry!

[@shalinipatel1181]

Hi Amruta, I am new to the tech writing space but the crisp and concise content of yours really gave a lot of confidence. I am interested in tech writing as i would like to take it up as skill and want to develop as a freelancer in this field. Do you have any personal suggestions to a complete begineer in this field who wants to start as a freelancer? I am into the IT space for the past 2-3 years. Does being in this industry give an edge?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Glad the content is helpful! I have no insights into a freelancing career tho

[@sadiaaijaz5697]

I felt as if my elder sister's speaking. One thing that I'm scared about taking a course online is that I'll have a certification but will not be able to work as good.

[@AmrutaRanade]

That's an absolutely valid fear! Which is why I advocate for building your portfolio v. taking a course. It's much more effective to _show_ recruiters (and yourself!) what you can do than just telling them about it.

[@kmm5587]

Hi can you give any links to non-profits that could use the services of a tech writer?

[@AmrutaRanade]

Hi! Sorry, KZbin hasn't been showing me comments for months! I don't know any non-profits that need a tech writer, but this reddit thread has a list of open source orgs looking for tech writers: www.reddit.com/r/technicalwriting/comments/800a9a/a_list_of_open_source_projects_with_volunteer/

[@aminanadir1787]

nicely explain for new learners