Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers from Udemy

This is the first in a series of courses for technical writers who want to learn how to write API documentation. This course teaches how to document structured data, focusing on the two most popular structured data formats: JSON and XML. If you are new to API documentation, this is a great place to start. No programming experience is required, but technical writers with programming experience who want to know more about structured data will still find it useful.

What are APIs?

There is a strong need for writers who can understand APIs and explain them so that software developers can understand how to use them. API writers get to be in on the cutting edge of technology in high-paying positions.

What is in This Course?

In this course you'll find:

Eight videos that:
- Provide background information on APIs and structured data
- Break down sample JSON and XML files to show you how they work
- Show real-time, narrated writing of JSON and XML documentation
Four hands-on exercises to lead you through building and documenting JSON and XML files
Two text-based lectures about useful software tools
Five short quizzes to keep you on your toes
PowerPoint presentations as a resource for every video lecture

5 hours to complete, depending on how fast you are with the exercises.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Read and understand structured data in json and xml formats.
Write documentation for json and xml files, for api documentation or other types of documentation.

Understand how to edit json and xml for tools that generate documentation.

Read and understand structured data in json and xml formats.
Write documentation for json and xml files, for api documentation or other types of documentation.
Understand how to edit json and xml for tools that generate documentation.

Syllabus

Understand what structured data is and why it is important.

Covers:

Teacher's background and credentials
What are APIs?
Why is API documentation important?
JSON, XML, and how they compare
Class overview

Covers:

Data types
Boolean values
Structured data

Please answer the following questions about data types.

For this class, you'll be creating JSON and XML files. This lecture recommends some tools you can use.

Understand and document structured data files in the JSON format

Covers:

The history of JSON
Basic data types
Arrays
Objects
Nesting
Indentation

On completion, students will be able to read and understand JSON files.

Note that this for this (and all video lectures), the PowerPoint presentation is included as a resource.

This lecture is actually a hands-on exercise. Create a JSON file according to the given specifications.

Please answer the following questions about JSON.

Covers:

How JSON is used for both requests and responses
Documenting a JSON element
Documenting acceptable values
Documenting element nesting

This lecture is an exercise where you will document three JSON files.

Answer these questions about JSON documentation:

I suggested using indentation in tables to indicate nesting. More recently, I have seen a different approach using sample JSON. This short article describes this approach.

Understand and document structured data files in the XML format

Covers:

What is XML?
Tags and content
Attributes
Namespaces and Comments
Indentation
Schemas

On completion, students will be able to read and understand XML files.

This lecture is an exercise where you will create three XML files according to specifications.

Please answer the following questions about XML.

Covers:

Differences between XML documentation and JSON documentation
Documenting attributes
Using multiple tables

On completion, students will know the basics of how to document XML.

This lecture is an exercise where you will document two XML files.

Answer the following questions about XML documentation:

Students will know what tools are available for documentation, how to use structured data to create documentation, and what the next steps in learning are.

Covers what kinds of tools are available for documenting JSON and XML.

Covers:

Why use structured data for documentation
Using JSON to describe APIs
Using XML to describe XML (XSD)
Disadvantages to this approach

Covers:

Review of everything you've learned in this course
What is the next step for learning to document APIs

Learn how to document REST APIs.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores structured data in JSON and XML formats, which is standard in many industries

Taught by Peter Gruenbaum, who is recognized for their work in technical writing

Develops foundational skills in reading, writing, and documenting structured data

Covers tools and software relevant to JSON and XML documentation

Includes hands-on exercises to reinforce learning

Teaches the basics of documenting XML, which is highly relevant to web development

Reviews summary

Guide to api tech writing: json and xml

learners say this introduction to API technical writing using JSON and XML is "largely positive" and "well received." The course begins with the basics of structured data and gradually builds to provide a foundational understanding of API documentation concepts and best practices. Students appreciate the well-structured content, clear explanations, hands-on exercises, and quizzes that reinforce key concepts. The instructor's expertise and engaging teaching style make complex topics accessible and easy to understand. Overall, learners find this course a valuable resource for gaining the skills needed for API documentation, especially for those with little to no coding background.

Primarily focuses on JSON and XML, providing a deep dive into their use in API documentation.

"The instructor, Dr. Peter Gruenbaum, is very engaging within the way that he presents the material to his students"

"He also does a great job in teaching the relevant content that one needs to learn and exercises are also very much relevant to the content."

Teaches best practices for organizing tables of JSON or XML file information.

"This course is good but it is only a toe in the water."

"The documentation aspect is only about how you can organize tables of JSON or XML file information and some best practices for those tables."

Includes short quizzes to test understanding after each lecture and practical exercises to work on.

"I was hesitant to buy an online course for this because there seems to be so much free content out there on YouTube or Wikipedia."

"However, for me, I definitely learn best by an instructor who provides real world examples and exercises and Peter did a great job with this course!"

"I liked that there were short quizzes to test my understanding after each lecture and practical exercises to work on too."

Suitable for beginners with little to no coding background, providing a solid foundation for API technical writing.

"Many technical writers face the issue of seeking IT service industry jobs but have very little coding background."

"Dr. Gruenbaum’s course helps technical writers gain a key understanding and opportunity to actively practice/interact with the curriculum"

"This is a good start."

Provides clear explanations and examples to make complex topics accessible and easy to understand.

"Dr. Peter Gruenbaum is very engaging within the way that he presents the material to his students"

"He also does a great job in teaching the relevant content that one needs to learn and exercises are also very much relevant to the content."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers with these activities:

Review course notes

Show steps

Refresh and strengthen foundational concepts related to APIs, JSON, and XML before beginning the course.

Browse courses on APIs

Show steps

Review class notes from a previous API documentation course if available to reacquaint yourself with the basics.
Review lecture notes from previous courses on structured data, JSON, and XML.
Complete practice problems and exercises from old courses to assess knowledge gaps.

Gather resources for further learning

Show steps

Expand your knowledge and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in API documentation.

Show steps

Compile a list of reputable websites, blogs, and online forums dedicated to API documentation.
Follow industry leaders and experts on social media to stay informed about new techniques and developments.
Bookmark and organize your findings for easy access and future reference.

Tutorials on XML Document Structure

Show steps

Follow guided tutorials on XML document structure to enhance understanding of its elements, tags, attributes, and schema, providing a strong foundation for XML documentation.

Browse courses on XML Schema

Show steps

Identify XML elements and attributes
Understand the purpose of an XML schema
Validate an XML document

Nine other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all 12 activities

Join a study group or participate in online forums

Show steps

Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, ask questions, and share knowledge.

Show steps

Join a study group or online forum dedicated to the course or related topics.
Actively participate in discussions, ask clarifying questions, and provide insights.
Engage with other learners to exchange knowledge and reinforce concepts.

Perform data manipulation exercises

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of data manipulation techniques used in API documentation.

Browse courses on Data Manipulation

Show steps

Create a set of sample JSON and XML files.
Practice extracting and modifying data from these files.
Create unit tests to verify the correctness of your data manipulation.

Interactive online tutorials

Show steps

Reinforce concepts learned in lectures and gain additional hands-on practice.

Show steps

Search for reputable interactive tutorials that cover the topics introduced in the course.
Work through the tutorials at your own pace, taking notes and asking questions as needed.
Participate in discussion forums and ask questions to engage with other learners.

Explore advanced JSON and XML tools

Show steps

Expand your knowledge by exploring advanced tools and techniques for working with JSON and XML.

Browse courses on Data Manipulation

Show steps

Identify a specific tool or technique you want to learn.
Find and access online tutorials or documentation.
Follow the instructions and examples provided.

Regularly practice writing JSON and XML documentation

Show steps

Develop proficiency and strengthen understanding of JSON and XML documentation syntax and best practices.

Show steps

Find sample API documentation online or create your own sample APIs.
Practice writing documentation for the sample APIs using both JSON and XML.
Compare your documentation to existing examples or seek feedback from peers to identify areas for improvement.

Find a mentor in the field of API documentation

Show steps

Connect with experienced professionals to gain valuable insights and guidance.

Show steps

Attend industry events or reach out to your network to identify potential mentors.
Identify individuals with expertise in API documentation and request mentorship.
Meet regularly with your mentor to discuss your progress, ask questions, and get feedback.

Develop a sample API documentation

Show steps

Apply your knowledge to create a comprehensive API documentation, demonstrating your understanding of structured data and API documentation principles.

Browse courses on API Documentation

Show steps

Choose an API to document.
Identify the key components and functionality of the API.
Create clear and detailed documentation, using appropriate formatting and examples.
Publish the documentation and share it with others for feedback.

Create a sample API documentation set

Show steps

Apply your knowledge and skills to create a comprehensive API documentation set for a real-world project.

Show steps

Choose a real-world project or API that needs documentation.
Gather and analyze the necessary information about the API to create accurate and comprehensive documentation.
Write documentation for the API using both JSON and XML formats, adhering to best practices and industry standards.
Proofread and edit the documentation carefully, ensuring clarity and consistency.

API Documentation Project

Show steps

Develop a comprehensive API documentation project, applying the principles learned in the course to create a well-structured and informative document.

Browse courses on API Documentation

Show steps

Choose an API
Analyze the API's functionality
Write the API documentation
Publish the documentation

Career center

Learners who complete Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create and maintain documentation for a variety of technical products, including software, hardware, and websites. This documentation helps users understand how to use the products and troubleshoot problems. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course can be useful for Technical Writers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge is essential for writing clear and concise technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

API Documentation Writer

An API Documentation Writer is responsible for creating and maintaining documentation for application programming interfaces (APIs). This documentation helps developers understand how to use the APIs to build applications. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course can be useful for API Documentation Writers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge is essential for writing clear and concise API documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for API Documentation Writer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. They use a variety of statistical and data analysis techniques to identify trends and patterns in data. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Data Analysts because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to collect and analyze data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Information Architect

Information Architects design and organize websites and other digital products to make them easy to use. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create user-centered designs. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Information Architects because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by websites and other digital products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Architect

Content Strategist

Content Strategists develop and implement content strategies for websites, blogs, and other digital products. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create content that meets the needs of users. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Content Strategists because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by websites and other digital products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Content Strategist

User Experience Designer

User Experience Designers design and evaluate the user experience of websites, apps, and other digital products. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create user-centered designs. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for User Experience Designers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by websites and other digital products.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and tools to create software that meets the needs of users. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Software Developers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to build software applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Software Architect

Software Architects design and implement software architectures. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create software designs. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Software Architects because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create software architectures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect

Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create product specifications.The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Product Managers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. They use a variety of statistical and data analysis techniques to identify trends and patterns in data. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Data Scientists because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to collect and analyze data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design and implement machine learning models. They use a variety of statistical and data analysis techniques to train models that can make predictions. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Machine Learning Engineers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to collect and analyze data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Business Analyst

Business Analysts work with businesses to identify and solve problems. They use a variety of techniques to gather requirements and create solutions that meet the needs of the business. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Business Analysts because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Architect

Data Architects design and implement data architectures. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create data models. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Data Architects because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data models.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create database designs. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Database Administrators because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create and manage databases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders to gather requirements and create project plans. The "Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers" course may be useful for Project Managers because it provides a foundation in the two most popular structured data formats, JSON and XML. This knowledge can be helpful for understanding how to use APIs to create structured data that can be easily used by a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager