Technical writing exercises

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October 12, 8: As a test, I need to write and submit a document, several pages long, explaining how to do something the industry cliche is "How to make a cup of tea". I'm having trouble finding examples of well-written technical writing exercises like these not to copy, obviously, but to get a feel for the style that I need to use.

I basically just need to show that I am able to organise my thoughts logically, and organise my material. I find it much easier to work if I have Technical writing exercises good idea of the sort of style I should be going for, so I'd love to find some examples of good technical writing to help me on my way.

The samples I've been able to find are things like completed technical documentation, which is not what I need - I just need to see how others have outlined simple tasks. Have you tried looking for docs in the specific industry in which you would be working?

I also find that Google's help is usually concise and clear. Did they say that the document should be several pages long? That seems rather long for a procedural document. Does the position entail writing for the web? If so and even if notthe Yahoo! Style Guide and its exercises might help.

My unsolicited two cents: You don't really have to emulate a style. As you said, just write logically and clearly, and watch your grammar. Rules and conventions depend on the type of documentation, the industry, and audience, so instead of worrying about what this company does, be consistent: Choose a convention and stick to it throughout the doc.

The company might have its own in-house guide too. Do you have to use the tea example? Confused writing often indicates a confused mind, so choose a topic that you know well and enjoy.

Use screen shots or diagrams, if needed. My first year in grad school I took a class intended for technical writing teachers. Our first assignment was to create documentation for a small Lego kit that our teacher provided. Some students wrote pages and pages of tiny text, with precise and flowery language.

At the end of the exercise, the teacher collected the documents and deposited them unread on the desk. She then handed us the instructions that came with the Lego kits.

The instructions were about a single page long, and were all pictures. She pointed to the box, where it clearly stated that the intended audience for Legos begins with five-year-olds. What I'm saying is that the best instructions aren't usually all about words, and sometimes they have few words.

Think of your audience, and gear your instructions towards how your audience will use your document.

My advice is to use simple language and present your process in simple steps. If context is required, put it before the steps. If you can simplify with a diagram, do it. Do not be flowery.

Talk about single-sourcing in your interview. And if you want to drive a tech writer insane, use two spaces after a full stop. Choose something you know how to do and can do at home. Let's use the cliche tea example, but you can apply this method to writing about software configuration, car repair, sex techniques, and sheep shearing.

All at once, if need be. You have a title: What did you do? How did you "make tea" -- did you make a cup or a pot?Oct 12,  · So I have the opportunity to be considered for a job as a technical writer. As a test, I need to write and submit a document, several pages long, explaining how to do something (the industry.

Jan 26,  · How to Master Technical Writing. In this Article: Understanding Technical Writing Improving Your Writing Style and Approach Using Technical Writing Courses and Professional Resources Community Q&A. Technical writing is one of the fastest growing professions and the demand for technical writers shows no signs of slowing down%(80).

literature versus technical writing manual experience at the beginning of the class to promote understanding of the differences. I have prepared charts and . 12 ways to practice technical writing Thursday, 27 January PM I was recently ADD-ing my way through a series of links and ran across an essay by Steve Yegge in which he challenges programmers to practice their craft, "practice" here meaning the kind of practicing that musicians and basketball players do.

Our technical writing course is for you if you want to develop your technical writing abilities or are seeking a professional career as a technical writer. Technical Writing for Success; Technical Communication; The writing exercises and assignments stimulated critical thinking and were well-designed to promote the correct fundamentals.

guide for use of “I” and “we” in technical papers. 22 Writing Is a Process • Good writing doesn’t happen overnight; it requires planning, drafting, rereading, revising, and editing. technical writing; use the examples presented to guide you in your writing.