Introduction

EN 4932 Technical and Scientific

Writing
Semester 7 2010 Batch

What is Technical Writing?
Writing that is done for the purpose of educating,
informing or directing someone on how to do
something.
Significantly different from other types of writing
because technical writing is intended to impart to
the reader some specific skill or ability.
Is very detail-oriented and usually involves
writing within fields where some advanced
knowledge is required.
Criteria for Identifying a Good
Document
1. Language Criteria
How easy it is for people to understand the words
2. Design Criteria
The visual impact of the document and the way its
design influences usability
3. Relationship Criteria
How far the document establishes a relationship with
its users
4. Content Criteria
How the content and the way it is organized deliver
the documents purpose
1. Language Criteria
2. Design Criteria
3. Relationship Criteria
4. Content Criteria
Examples of Technical Writing
End-user documentation
This type of writing includes documents where the writer explains a
topic to a novice so that they can understand technical terms and
apply them in a real-life situation.
Traditional technical writing
This is writing that is geared to an audience already at least somewhat
familiar with a technical field such as engineering or politics.
Technological marketing communications
This is writing used in promotional marketing such as fliers and
promotional brochures that would entice a person to purchase a
certain product or service.

Technical reports
Instruction manuals
Policy manuals
Process manuals
Tips for Good Technical Writing