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Technical Writing seamlessly blends the art of communication with the nuances of technology. Tailored for a diverse audience, including writers, communicators, engineers, and IT professionals, this course serves as a beacon, guiding participants toward the creation of effective technical documents tailored to specialized audiences.
Read more
Technical Writing seamlessly blends the art of communication with the nuances of technology. Tailored for a diverse audience, including writers, communicators, engineers, and IT professionals, this course serves as a beacon, guiding participants toward the creation of effective technical documents tailored to specialized audiences.
Read more
Technical Writing seamlessly blends the art of communication with the nuances of technology. Tailored for a diverse audience, including writers, communicators, engineers, and IT professionals, this course serves as a beacon, guiding participants toward the creation of effective technical documents tailored to specialized audiences.
Starting with the fundamentals of technical writing, participants will delve into its history, discern its unique features, and grasp the core elements. This segment emphasizes audience-centric content, the journey from planning to publishing, and the importance of continuous feedback.
Transitioning to design principles and tools, the course sharpens participants' skills in document aesthetics from typography to layouts. They'll also explore essential modern tools, including advanced word processors and collaboration platforms like GitHub.
The next phase introduces a range of technical documents, from user manuals to API documentation, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of writers. It underscores creating accessible, globally resonant content with cultural sensitivity and localization insights.
Concluding with advanced topics and career advancement, participants will tackle complex documentation challenges, embrace multimedia elements, and explore writing for platforms like VR and AR. This segment also preps participants to build a strong technical writing portfolio and foster professional networks.
By the course's end, participants will emerge as proficient technical writers, skilled in varied writing forms, contemporary tools, and ethical documentation, ready to showcase their expertise and embark on a rewarding career journey.
This is a beginner to advance level of course, intended for learners with a background in Computer Science and Technology and professionals looking to upgrade their skills in Technical Writing.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/m5eo7u/introduction
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What's inside
Syllabus
Fundamentals of Technical Writing
Fundamentals of Technical Writing! This module introduces the essential elements of technical writing and the comprehensive process involved in creating effective technical documents. In Lesson 1, we explore the historical evolution of technical writing, its distinctions from other writing types, and the characteristics of impactful technical documents, including SEO considerations. Understanding your audience and tailoring content to their needs is emphasized. Moving on to Lesson 2, we guide you through the entire technical writing process. This includes planning and researching, drafting, revising, and rewriting, as well as proofreading, finalizing, and publishing your document. We stress the importance of continuous feedback and updates, recognizing the iterative nature of technical writing. By the end of this module, you will have the fundamental knowledge and skills to excel in the dynamic field of technical writing.
Read more
Syllabus
Fundamentals of Technical Writing
Fundamentals of Technical Writing! This module introduces the essential elements of technical writing and the comprehensive process involved in creating effective technical documents. In Lesson 1, we explore the historical evolution of technical writing, its distinctions from other writing types, and the characteristics of impactful technical documents, including SEO considerations. Understanding your audience and tailoring content to their needs is emphasized. Moving on to Lesson 2, we guide you through the entire technical writing process. This includes planning and researching, drafting, revising, and rewriting, as well as proofreading, finalizing, and publishing your document. We stress the importance of continuous feedback and updates, recognizing the iterative nature of technical writing. By the end of this module, you will have the fundamental knowledge and skills to excel in the dynamic field of technical writing.
Read more
Design Principles and Essential Writing Tools
Design Principles and Essential Writing Tools explores the art of effective design and layout for technical documents, covering typography, color, charts, graphs, and navigation aids. You will learn to create visually appealing and well-organized content. Additionally, this module introduces crucial writing tools and software, including word processors, collaboration platforms like GitHub, graphics and multimedia tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, and Content Management Systems (CMS). By the end of this module, you will be equipped with the skills to craft engaging technical documents, efficiently collaborate with team members, and utilize essential writing tools for a successful career as a technical writer.
Diverse Technical Document Types and Ethical Practices
Diverse Technical Document Types and Ethical Practices, we explore a wide range of technical documents, including user manuals, technical proposals, online help systems, and API documentation. Each video lesson provides valuable insights into crafting these documents effectively with the best practices in mind. Moreover, this module delves into the ethical responsibilities of technical writers, emphasizing the importance of upholding ethical standards, creating accessible documents for all users, embracing cultural and linguistic diversity, and understanding the fundamentals of localization and translation. By the end of this module, learners will be well-equipped to produce impactful technical content while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity, ethics, and global awareness.
Advanced Topics and Career Advancement
Advanced Topics and Career Advancement in our Technical Writing course. This module pushes the boundaries of traditional technical writing, guiding you through advanced documentation for complex systems, integrating multimedia and interactive elements, writing for emerging technologies like VR and AR, and examining innovative case studies. In Lesson 2, you'll learn how to build a robust technical writing portfolio showcasing your subject matter expertise, explore the digital versus physical portfolio debate, master networking within the technical writing community, and embrace continuous learning for professional growth. Prepare to enhance your technical writing prowess, embrace innovation, and establish a strong foothold in this dynamic field, equipping yourself for a successful and rewarding career journey.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Builds on existing knowledge in computer science and writing
Students who already have backgrounds in computer science and technical writing may find this course less informative
Save this course
Save Introduction to Technical Writing to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 Introduction to Technical Writing with these
activities:
Read and Summarize: The Elements of Technical Writing
Show steps
Gain a solid foundation in technical writing principles and best practices by reading and summarizing a seminal book in the field.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and take notes on the book.
-
Summarize each chapter in your own words.
-
Highlight key concepts and techniques.
-
Prepare a brief presentation to share your summary with classmates (optional).
Review previous technical writing portfolio pieces
Show steps
Refresh your technical writing skills by reviewing previous portfolio pieces, identifying areas for improvement, and setting goals for the course.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
-
Gather your previous technical writing portfolio pieces.
-
Review each piece, paying attention to the structure, organization, clarity, and conciseness of the writing.
-
Identify areas where you can improve your writing.
-
Set specific goals for the course that will help you improve your technical writing skills.
Document Usability Testing
Show steps
Conduct usability testing on your technical documents to ensure they are effective in conveying information to users.
Browse courses on
Usability Testing
Show steps
-
Define the goals and objectives of the usability testing.
-
Recruit a group of representative users to participate in the testing.
-
Develop a set of tasks for the users to complete.
-
Observe and record the users' interactions with the documents.
-
Analyze the results of the testing and make improvements to the documents.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow Online Typography Tutorials
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of typography and its impact on the readability and effectiveness of technical documents.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Identify online tutorials or courses that cover typography basics.
-
Follow the tutorials, taking notes on key concepts and techniques.
-
Practice applying typography principles to your own technical writing.
-
Seek feedback from peers or instructors on your improved typography.
Peer Review and Critique Sessions
Show steps
Engage in regular peer review and critique sessions with classmates to improve the quality and effectiveness of your technical writing.
Browse courses on
Peer Review
Show steps
-
Find a peer review group or partner.
-
Establish clear guidelines for the peer review process.
-
Exchange writing samples with your peers and provide constructive feedback.
-
Revise and improve your writing based on the feedback received.
Technical Writing Style Guide
Show steps
Create a comprehensive technical writing style guide that will help you maintain consistency and quality in your writing.
Browse courses on
Style Guide
Show steps
-
Research and gather best practices for technical writing style.
-
Develop guidelines for formatting, structure, tone, and language.
-
Include examples and templates to illustrate the guidelines.
-
Review and revise the style guide regularly.
-
Share the style guide with colleagues and stakeholders.
Contribute to Open-Source Technical Documentation
Show steps
Contribute to open-source technical documentation projects to gain real-world experience and enhance your understanding of effective technical writing.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
-
Identify open-source technical documentation projects that align with your interests.
-
Review the project's documentation guidelines and style guide.
-
Make contributions to the documentation, such as writing new sections, updating existing content, or fixing errors.
-
Collaborate with other contributors and maintain open communication.
-
Receive feedback and make revisions to your contributions.
Develop a Technical Writing Portfolio Website
Show steps
Create a professional technical writing portfolio website to showcase your skills, experience, and commitment to excellence in the field.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
-
Choose a platform or website builder for your portfolio.
-
Select and organize your best technical writing samples.
-
Design and develop your website, highlighting your writing abilities and professional experience.
-
Include a clear call to action and contact information.
-
Promote your portfolio website on social media and other channels.
Read and Summarize: The Elements of Technical Writing
Show steps
Gain a solid foundation in technical writing principles and best practices by reading and summarizing a seminal book in the field.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and take notes on the book.
- Summarize each chapter in your own words.
- Highlight key concepts and techniques.
- Prepare a brief presentation to share your summary with classmates (optional).
Review previous technical writing portfolio pieces
Show steps
Refresh your technical writing skills by reviewing previous portfolio pieces, identifying areas for improvement, and setting goals for the course.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your previous technical writing portfolio pieces.
- Review each piece, paying attention to the structure, organization, clarity, and conciseness of the writing.
- Identify areas where you can improve your writing.
- Set specific goals for the course that will help you improve your technical writing skills.
Document Usability Testing
Show steps
Conduct usability testing on your technical documents to ensure they are effective in conveying information to users.
Browse courses on
Usability Testing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the goals and objectives of the usability testing.
- Recruit a group of representative users to participate in the testing.
- Develop a set of tasks for the users to complete.
- Observe and record the users' interactions with the documents.
- Analyze the results of the testing and make improvements to the documents.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow Online Typography Tutorials
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of typography and its impact on the readability and effectiveness of technical documents.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online tutorials or courses that cover typography basics.
- Follow the tutorials, taking notes on key concepts and techniques.
- Practice applying typography principles to your own technical writing.
- Seek feedback from peers or instructors on your improved typography.
Peer Review and Critique Sessions
Show steps
Engage in regular peer review and critique sessions with classmates to improve the quality and effectiveness of your technical writing.
Browse courses on
Peer Review
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a peer review group or partner.
- Establish clear guidelines for the peer review process.
- Exchange writing samples with your peers and provide constructive feedback.
- Revise and improve your writing based on the feedback received.
Technical Writing Style Guide
Show steps
Create a comprehensive technical writing style guide that will help you maintain consistency and quality in your writing.
Browse courses on
Style Guide
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and gather best practices for technical writing style.
- Develop guidelines for formatting, structure, tone, and language.
- Include examples and templates to illustrate the guidelines.
- Review and revise the style guide regularly.
- Share the style guide with colleagues and stakeholders.
Contribute to Open-Source Technical Documentation
Show steps
Contribute to open-source technical documentation projects to gain real-world experience and enhance your understanding of effective technical writing.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source technical documentation projects that align with your interests.
- Review the project's documentation guidelines and style guide.
- Make contributions to the documentation, such as writing new sections, updating existing content, or fixing errors.
- Collaborate with other contributors and maintain open communication.
- Receive feedback and make revisions to your contributions.
Develop a Technical Writing Portfolio Website
Show steps
Create a professional technical writing portfolio website to showcase your skills, experience, and commitment to excellence in the field.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a platform or website builder for your portfolio.
- Select and organize your best technical writing samples.
- Design and develop your website, highlighting your writing abilities and professional experience.
- Include a clear call to action and contact information.
- Promote your portfolio website on social media and other channels.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Technical Writing will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer is responsible for creating user manuals, online help systems, and other technical documentation. This course provides a comprehensive foundation in technical writing, covering the principles of effective communication, design, and ethics. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create clear, concise, and accurate technical documents that meet the needs of their audience.
Content Writer
Content Writer
Content Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, such as marketing, advertising, and public relations. This course provides a strong foundation in writing principles, audience analysis, and content strategy. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create engaging and effective written content that meets the needs of their audience.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers develop and deliver training programs and materials. This course provides a foundation in instructional design principles, learning theory, and assessment. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and engaging learning experiences.
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers create products and services that are easy to use and enjoyable. This course provides a foundation in human-computer interaction, design thinking, and user research. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create products and services that meet the needs of users.
Information Architect
Information Architect
Information Architects organize and structure information to make it easy to find and use. This course provides a foundation in information architecture principles, user research, and content strategy. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and user-friendly information systems.
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicators translate technical information into clear and concise language for a variety of audiences. This course provides a foundation in technical writing principles, audience analysis, and communication theory. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and engaging technical communication materials.
Editor
Editor
Editors review and revise written content to ensure that it is clear, concise, and error-free. This course provides a foundation in editing principles, grammar, and style. Learners will develop the skills necessary to edit a variety of written content, including technical documents, marketing materials, and academic papers.
Proposal Writer
Proposal Writer
Proposal Writers create proposals that persuade readers to take a specific action, such as funding a project or purchasing a product. This course provides a foundation in proposal writing principles, audience analysis, and persuasive writing. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and persuasive proposals.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
Grant Writers create proposals that request funding from government agencies or private foundations. This course provides a foundation in grant writing principles, proposal writing, and research. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and persuasive grant proposals.
Instructional Technologist
Instructional Technologist
Instructional Technologists design and develop educational technology solutions. This course provides a foundation in instructional design principles, learning theory, and technology integration. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and engaging learning experiences that leverage technology.
Learning and Development Specialist
Learning and Development Specialist
Learning and Development Specialists develop and deliver training programs for employees. This course provides a foundation in instructional design principles, learning theory, and assessment. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and engaging learning experiences.
Knowledge Manager
Knowledge Manager
Knowledge Managers create and manage systems for capturing, organizing, and sharing knowledge within an organization. This course provides a foundation in knowledge management principles, information architecture, and technology. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and efficient knowledge management systems.
Information Science
Information Science
Information Scientists apply scientific methods to the organization, storage, and retrieval of information. This course provides a foundation in information science principles, data mining, and machine learning. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and efficient information systems.
Document Management
Document Management
Document Management professionals create and manage systems for storing, organizing, and retrieving documents. This course provides a foundation in document management principles, information architecture, and technology. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create effective and efficient document management systems.
Library Science
Library Science
Library Scientists organize and manage libraries and information resources. This course provides a foundation in library science principles, information retrieval, and collection development. Learners will develop the skills necessary to create and manage effective and efficient libraries.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/m5eo7u/introduction
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Technical Writing.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of technical writing for the web. It good resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the principles and practices of technical writing for the web.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of technical editing. It good resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the principles and practices of technical editing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the technical writer's style guide. It good resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the principles and practices of the technical writer's style guide.
Provides a comprehensive overview of documentation standards and practices. It good resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the principles and practices of documentation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of collaborative technical writing. It good resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the principles and practices of collaborative technical writing.
Save
Style guide for medical and scientific writing. It good resource for students and professionals who need to write technical documents that are clear, concise, and accurate.
Save
Style guide for writers and editors. It good resource for students and professionals who need to write technical documents that are clear, concise, and accurate.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/m5eo7u/introduction
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Effort
3 Weeks of Study, 4hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Board Infinity
Instructor
Board Infinity
Language
English
Good to know
Builds on existing knowledge in computer science and writing
Students who already have backgrounds in computer science and technical writing may find this course less informative
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