example of technical writing in creative writing

8 Great Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You

Detailed examples are a treasure for technical writers. They are a great way to understand and adapt to the best practices that can make your technical writing content stand out.

An example of good technical writing can help you identify phrases, words, and practices that can improve your content. They can also help you start writing a type of technical document you haven’t read before.

However, there aren’t only good examples of technical writing out there. A poorly written technical document example can also teach lessons on avoiding common mistakes. The example work allows you to develop a writing outlook to create successful technical documentation.

We will discuss technical writing and how you can write a technical document. We will also enlist eight technical writing examples that may help you write exceptional pieces.

What is Technical Writing?

Whenever technical information is written and documented, it is technical writing. Technical writing contains all documentation for complex technical processes. It includes executive summary statements, reports, briefs, and much more.

It can also include high-tech manufacturing, biotech, aerospace, finance, IT, engineering, and supply chain information. The format of a technical document is no longer bound to lengthy user manuals; it must be distilled and presented unambiguously. It can also come in technical reports, emails, briefs, press releases, or policies.

Technical writing continues to be a high conversion skill in all professional workplaces. Its demand grows at 10% annually from 2014 to 2022 — faster than any other occupation. Therefore, it would be great if you learned to write complex documents for your organization, and we have prepared a list of technical writing examples to help you understand and write better.

8 Best Technical Writing Examples

1. user manuals.

Writing a user manual is a daunting task for a technical writer , as it contains all the instructions a user needs to operate a product or feature. Writing a user manual requires a combination of organizational and technical writing skills, so it is an essential example of technical writing to follow.

Before moving into the components of a user manual, make sure you have worked on three things: 1) collecting information, 2) choosing structure and style, and 3) putting the manual together.

Here are five major components of effective user manuals:

It is the central part or body of the user manual that explains the process. The logical, numbered steps help the user solve the problem. Illustrations can also be used to facilitate component or experience visualization.

2. Content

Avoid technical language whenever there is a risk of isolating audience segments. The best way to make your content super easy is to imagine you are writing for a junior high school student. Tables and graphs can also be included to show how content sections relate, complement, and contrast.

3. Glossary of Terms

Every industry has its language and vocabulary. But some users are not familiar with even the most commonly used terms. A glossary of terms serves as their reference and a home for each term. It eliminates the need for technical writers to restate and re-explain definitions repeatedly.

4. Table of Contents

As a general rule, if a user manual exceeds 10–12 pages, you must use a table of contents. The entries are listed in order of presentation with accompanying page numbers.

5. Precautionary Information

Notes of caution, warnings and danger notices help user safety. They also help the manufacturer address liability concerns related to the product. Also, use universal graphic symbols to present each type of risk to the reader.

A user manual’s content can range from less than a dozen to hundreds of pages. The more complex the product or service, the lengthier the manual. In its ideal state, a user manual is a set of instructions presented in a style and format that helps quick reference and facilitates the product’s success in the market.

Unbounce’s user manual is a sublime example of effective user documentation. Their documentation is easy to navigate, with each step having its table of content to make it easy to find. Refer to their user manual as a standard if you ever write a user manual.

2. API Documentation

Similar to the user manual, API documentation helps guide the user through configuring an API. Before we move to API documentation, let us reveal exactly what API is.

API is the short form for the application programming interface. It is like a bridge between your computer, mobile phone, or other application and external resources.

In simple words, APIs allow the software to interact with other software programs, resources, and databases. Since APIs are built by software developers, it is easier for a software developer to create the documentation.

Moving on to the next part of writing API documentation, here is what you must include.

An Overview

An overview is just like an abstract page of a project report. It contains a summary of the API and the problem it is solving. It also includes the benefits of using the particular API over similar ones.

2. Tutorial

It is the main instructional body of the documentation. A tutorial must include different content formats you are using to explain the concept of the API to the user. It also contains links for reference and a detailed guide for integrating and consuming the API, so it functions properly.

3. Examples

Once you have explained how the API works and provided steps, it is a good idea to show examples of it. Examples of calls, error handling, responses, and other operations can help demonstrate how the developer interacts with the API.

4. Glossary

Although a glossary is optional, it is recommended for your API documentation. Instead of boring the user with long text blocks, explanations of various terms, images, and schemas can be pushed to the glossary. Then you can reference these things in the documentation and link to the glossary.

Stripe API Reference is the best example of API documentation and a work of art. It includes a sleek, two-panel design, with explanations written in plain English on the left and handy code snippets on the right. It has all the crucial information one needs.

3. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

A standard operating procedure or SOP is a set of written instructions. They describe the step-by-step process of performing a routine activity. SOPs follow the same approach every time to guarantee that the organization remains consistent and complies with industry regulations and business standards.

SOPs provide the policies, standards, and processes required for the organization to succeed. They also benefit a business by reducing errors and increasing profitability and efficiencies. They create a comfortable work environment and generate guidelines for how to resolve issues and overcome obstacles.

Before writing the SOP, ensure the writers perform a risk assessment. It will help them determine any obstacles that may arise during the process. They should also consider the risk associated with those obstacles.

Here are the three components that comprise a standard operating procedure.

Title Page: A title page lists the title of the SOP, what it is written for, its SOP identification, and the names and signatures of the people who prepared and approved the manual.
Table of Contents: It provides easy access to the various sections in large SOPs.
Steps of Procedure: It includes explanations of the task’s goal, roles and responsibilities, terminology, regulatory requirements, descriptions of what should be done to complete each step, and a discussion of decisions that must be made. It is the central part and takes the main portion of the SOP.

Once technical writers finish the draft, it must be reviewed, edited, and tested. The process should repeat until all stakeholders have written and approved an SOP. At this point, the SOP can be distributed to each person who needs it.

SOPs record the production line procedures used to train employees and make products. It can also be used in finance and administrative environments to document the processes of customer finance collection. Examples of how an SOP is used can be found in a manufacturing environment.

Both case studies and white papers are the most potent and sought-after types of content. Both can help an organization generate leads for the business. However, both differ in purpose, audience, and funnel stage.

A white paper is a technical document that helps readers understand an issue and devise a strategy to solve a problem or make a decision. It is a lengthy piece of content, at approximately 2,000 words or six pages. White papers can be practical to target people at all steps of the funnel.

One white paper can create awareness of a persona’s problem by targeting someone at the top of the funnel. While a second can focus on advanced product uses, targeting someone at the bottom of the funnel.

The components of a white paper include:

Introduction with a problem statement
Proposed solution

On the other hand, a case study features extended testimonials on how a product or service helped a customer. It is shorter than a white paper and consists of around 800 words. These are best suited for the audiences at the top or middle of the funnel. Use these to create awareness of a problem and show how a solution worked for a real customer.

A case study’s must-have components include:

Executive summary
Outlining customer’s challenges
The leading reader through the customer’s journey
Moment of discovery
Writing solutions as the central part
Walking reader through implementation
Celebrating customer results
Closing with CTA

Gravitate’s setting the stage for success is the best example of how to transform a detailed case study for an easier read. It introduces the customer to give visitors a little background of what they do. Then they dive straight into their role of helping the customer with a robust marketing strategy.

Global Trade Professionals Alliance’s (GTPA) Capacity Building And Standards Development For Inclusive Trade is the top example of a white paper. It starts with an overview of the problem, then states the role of GTPA in solving the problem, and finally, it reveals the outcomes and way forward.

4. Press Releases

A press release is a short yet compelling news story. It is written by a public relations professional and sent to targeted members of the media. Its goal is to press release the interest of a community or business. The press release contains all the necessary information for the journalists to quickly produce their stories.

It is also defined as a brief, printed statement highlighting significant facts of a news story in journalistic style. A press release can read like a news story, written in the third person but cites quotes and sources containing standard press release information.

Press releases are essential as they can be an excellent way to start a dialogue with a report. Journalists usually get dozens of irrelevant press releases every day. So, if you reach out to a reporter with a well-written press release, they may take notice and appreciate it. The press release also helps build credibility and control the narrative. Moreover, it can also build SEO traffic and increase customer engagement with your product or service.

A press release has six essential components. These include:

Data and location
Boiler place

The top example of a press release is Hobby Lobby’s press release . Hobby Lobby is a nationwide retail store that issued a press release announcing an increase in the minimum wage.

With an ongoing debate on minimum wage, the store gave a newsworthy story for corporations to instill a minimum wage increase. Not only did this build a positive brand image, but it also helped attract and retain more staff.

5. Business Plans

A business plan is a technical document that tells the company’s objectives in detail. It also describes the strategies for achieving these objectives. A business plan lays out a written guide for the firm from financial, operational, and marketing standpoints. The startups and established companies use business plans as their basic requirement. A business plan is essential for a company’s external and internal audiences.

For instance, a business plan can be used to bring investment even if the company won’t have an established track record. It can also help secure lending from financial institutions. Additionally, a business plan keeps a company’s executive team on the same page about strategic actions. It helps them meet established goals. Sometimes, a business plan is created for a based business that decides to move in a new direction.

Below are some of the most common components of a business plan.

Market analysis
Products and services
Marketing strategy
Financial planning

A business plan is not as difficult as one might think. It is a written tool about a business that projects 3 to 5 years ahead. It also outlines a company’s path to make money and grow its revenue. Think of your business plan as a living project for your business and not a one-time project. Break it down into mini plans like one for sales, pricing, marketing, and so on.

If you want to write your business plan, know there is no right or wrong way to write it. You can pick a plan format and start writing. It also helps you reach business milestones and get you the required funding. The important thing is that your business plan must meet your needs.

ThoughtCo’s business plan for a fictional company called Acme Management is the best example of a business plan. Its executive summary occupies nearly half the page. So, if you intend to write your business plan, follow this example as your guide.

6. Company Documents

Business or company documents are written papers that represent you, your department, and your company. Whether it is external parties or other stakeholders in your organization, a company document will list them all. For precision, a company document is any sort of format document that is used for business purposes.

Multiple things fall into the company documents category. The list can be extended, but we will only include the most common things considered for a company document.

Accounting Documents
Formal Letters or Memos
Financial Documents
Meeting Summaries
Business Plans
Customer Service Documents
Operational Documents

A company document is not only a representation of your company but also represents you. So, make sure you do a solid job putting these materials together. If you don’t know already, here is how you write the best version of a company document.

First, start with an outline that is well-organized and highly structured to be effective. If you begin writing prematurely, the thoughts will be less structured and repetitive. So, before starting, always do three things: 1) generate ideas, 2) organize, and 3) structure.

Secondly, do not bury the lead. Do not hide the most critical information deep within your writing. In company documents, do not start with a bunch of fluff. You do not need to introduce anyone and build anticipation. A business document should be as streamlined and straightforward as possible.

Thirdly, use active verbs. You do not need to make your business document a thriller; neither should it be dry and bland. Instead, make your documents a little more engaging to keep the audience engaged.

Syngenta’s financial report is the perfect example of a business document. Please give it a read to understand the main components of an excellent company document.

7. Annual Reports

As the name suggests, an annual report is a comprehensive overview of a business’s achievements and financial statements from the preceding year. It also tells the financial status and vision for the future. It is produced annually and provided to shareholders, stakeholders, investors, and others to inform them of the business’s overall performance.

Today, businesses and organizations create different types of annual reports. These are used as a marketing tool for organizations to impress their investors and donors1, showcase their brand to employees and companies, and attract new ones. Each type of annual report is designed with a specific goal in mind.

A standard annual report for a public company must have:

A letter from the CEO
Corporate financial data
Market segment information
Operation and impact
Plans for new products
Subsidiary activities
Research and development activities

Depending on the size of a company, an annual report can range between 20 to 200 pages. Remember that actual human beings read your annual report. So, it must not be filled with fluff. Make it easy to read, review, and understand for the concerned people.

The annual report’s main section should include the following as its components:

A table of contents
Mission and vision statement
CSR initiatives
An afterword
Charts, graphs, and tables

Concerning annual reports, MailChimp’s name tops the list for great examples. With bold colors and playful illustrations, the 2020 report feels more like a video game than a regular annual report. It includes yearly traditional report content, like information about products and sales, as well as fun anecdotes about their culture and data about value-based initiatives they will take. As a result, an exciting and entertaining recap of the year comes is formed.

6 Steps to Craft the Best Technical Document in 2022

After you know all the best technical writing examples, it is time to write one. But what if you write a technical document and no one reads it? To avoid this, here are six steps that one must follow to create a technical document that everyone loves to read.

1. Know Your Audience

Knowing your audience is indispensable, especially when creating technical content for a product or service. For instance, a cab driver may have a different level of knowledge and understanding than a doctor reading your SOPs.

So, before you write or even create an outline, make sure you have a clear idea of who your readers are. Knowing this lets you adjust your tone, vocabulary, and framing accordingly. It also helps you to meet your readers’ needs from their point of knowledge.

2. Do Your Research

As a technical writer, you have to guide your readers through unfamiliar territory. For this, you must know everything about that particular thing. Otherwise, it will be unwise to expect a tremendous technical document. Remember, you can only teach what you thoroughly know and understand. A knowledge gap is immediately visible when you are not thorough in your research.

The best way to do this is to place yourself in your reader’s shoes. Then, imagine you had zero knowledge of a particular thing. Doing this will force you to cover all the potential questions that come to your mind.

3. Craft an Outline

An outline is essential because it gives a roadmap of what to cover in your piece. It can also help identify knowledge gaps as you conduct your research. A longer form of technical content, like white papers and case studies, always requires an outline. It serves as their marker to remind you of what you need to include in your technical document.

Some technical writing , like business plans and annual reports, has predefined formats. You can also use a template in place of an outline.

All in all, crafting an outline is an essential component of writing great technical content.

4. Prioritize Readability

Technical writing is more fact-based rather than entertaining. So, to tackle complicated topics, use sentences that are easily readable and can make your work more enjoyable to read.

In contrast, if you are verbose in your sentences and use words that are hard to understand, you will only frustrate your reader. To improve the readability of your technical content writing, apply these tips:

Use shorter, direct sentences that are easy to follow. Avoid passive voice wherever possible.
Add subheadings to break up the long texts for better readability.
Bold text and highlight paragraphs for emphasis and improving readability.
Add hyperlinks for web pages to reference and navigate to other sections of your piece.

5. Add Visuals

A technical document is all about words and sentences, but if you add visuals, it makes both writing and reading easier. Adding visuals is becoming less of an option and a necessity today. With flowcharts, illustrations, screenshots, and more, a technical document needs a dose of visuals to look presentable.

Whether creating a user manual or business documents, your reader will be happy to see product drawings, pie charts displaying the numbers, and more.

6. Cut the Fluff

Once you have written the technical document, the final part is to double-check the facts and cut the unnecessary information.

But what exactly is fluff? Fluff is anything that does not add value to your content; instead, it negatively impacts the understanding of your text. It can be a word, a sentence, or a phrase — if you find it, cut it off. Every word in your technical document must add value to your reader’s life.

Once you know the steps to write a technical document, it is time to learn the tips that will help you write effectively.

Tips for Improving Technical Writing

Poor writing affects the reader’s understanding of the product. It also damages the reputation of the company. So, how do you make your technical writing more inspiring and practical? Below are the five tips that will make your technical writing superb, even if you are just starting writing.

Stick to a technical writing style
Use plain language
Give important information first
Clear sentence structure
Don’t use passive voice

Good technical writing is not easy to achieve and often quite challenging to find. However, with these technical writing tips, you can take your writing to the next level and maximize the value you provide to your audience.

Now that you’ve read this guide, remember the document you create represents your company. If it’s written poorly, the user will consider it useless, and the company’s reputation will be at risk.

On the other hand, if it’s written well and follows every instruction, it will enhance user understanding, and the company will attract more attention.

So, read this guide carefully and create your technical documents accordingly. Whatever type of technical document you write, follow the rules defined above, and they will improve your skills. Always keep a note of your mistakes and things you have learned, and never stop honing your skills.

Published in What is Technical Writing?

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

Get our #1 industry rated weekly technical writing reads newsletter.

8 Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You

Become a Certified Technical Writer

As a technical writer, you may end up being confused about your job description because each industry and organization can have varying duties for you. At times, they may ask for something you’ve never written before. In that case, you can consider checking out some technical writing examples to get you started.

If you’re beginning your technical writing career, it’s advisable to go over several technical writing examples to make sure you get the hang of it. You don’t necessarily have to take a gander over at industry-specific examples; you can get the general idea in any case.

This article will go over what technical writing is and some of the common technical writing examples to get you started. If you’re looking to see some examples via video, watch below. Otherwise, skip ahead.

If you’re looking to learn via video, watch below. Otherwise, skip ahead.

Let’s start by covering what technical writing is .

What Exactly is Technical Writing?

Technical writing is all about easily digestible content regarding a specialized product or service for the public. Technical writers have to translate complex technical information into useful and easy-to-understand language.

There are many examples of technical writing, such as preparing instruction manuals and writing complete guides. In some cases, technical writing includes preparing research journals, writing support documents, and other technical documentation.

The idea is to help the final user understand any technical aspects of the product or service.

In other cases, technical writing means that the writer needs to know something. For example, pharmaceutical companies may hire medical writers to write their content since they have the required knowledge.

If you’re interested in learning more about these technical writing skills, then check out our Technical Writing Certification Course.

8 Technical Writing Examples to Get You Started

As a technical writer, you may have to learn new things continually, increase your knowledge, and work with new forms of content. While you may not have experience with all forms of technical writing, it’s crucial to understand how to do it.

If you learn all the intricacies of technical writing and technical documents, you can practically work with any form of content, given that you know the format.

Therefore, the following examples of technical writing should be sufficient for you to get an idea. The different types of technical writing have unique characteristics that you can easily learn and master effectively.

1. User Manuals

User manuals or instruction manuals come with various products, such as consumer electronics like televisions, consoles, cellphones, kitchen appliances, and more. The user manual serves as a complete guide on how to use the product, maintain it, clean it, and more. All technical manuals, including user manuals, have to be highly user-friendly. The technical writer has to write a manual to even someone with zero experience can use the product. Therefore, the target audience of user manuals is complete novices, amateurs, and people using the product/s for the first time.

Traditionally, user manuals have had text and diagrams to help users understand. However, user manuals have photographs, numbered diagrams, disclaimers, flow charts, sequenced instructions, warranty information, troubleshooting guides, and contact information in recent times.

Technical writers have to work with engineers, programmers, and product designers to ensure they don’t miss anything. The writer also anticipates potential issues ordinary users may have by first using the product. That helps them develop a first-hand experience and, ultimately, develop better user manuals.

The point of the user manual isn’t to predict every possible issue or problem. Most issues are unpredictable and are better handled by the customer support or help desk. User manuals are there to address direct and common issues at most.

You can check out some user manual examples and templates here . You can download them in PDF and edit them to develop an idea about how you can write a custom user manual for your product.

2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Standard operating procedures are complete processes for each organization’s various tasks to ensure smoother operations. SOPs help make each process more efficient, time-saving, and less costly.

An SOP document can include:

Everything from the method of processing payroll.
Hiring employees.
Calculating vacation time to manufacturing guidelines.

In any case, SOPs ensure that each person in an organization works in unison and uniformly to maintain quality.

SOPs help eliminate irregularities, favoritism, and other human errors if used correctly. Lastly, SOPs make sure employees can take the responsibilities of an absent employee, so there’s no lag in work.

Therefore, developing SOPs requires a complete study of how an organization works and its processes.

Here are some examples of standard operating procedures you can study. You can edit the samples directly or develop your own while taking inspiration from them.

3. Case Studies & White Papers

Case studies and white papers are a way of demonstrating one’s expertise in an area. Case studies delve into a specific instance or project and have takeaways proving or disproving something. White papers delve into addressing any industry-specific challenge, issue, or problem.

Both case studies and white papers are used to get more business and leads by organizations.

Technical writers who write white papers and case studies need to be experts in the industry and the project itself. It’s best if the technical writer has prior experience in writing such white papers.

The writing style of white papers and case studies is unique, along with the formatting. Both documents are written for a specific target audience and require technical writing skills. Case studies are written in a passive voice, while white papers are written in an active voice. In any case, it’s crucial to maintain a certain level of knowledge to be able to pull it off.

You can check out multiple white paper examples here , along with various templates and guides. You can check out some examples here for case studies, along with complete templates.

4. API Documentation

API documentation includes instructions on effectively using and integrating with any API, such as web-API, software API, and SCPIs. API documentation contains details about classes, functions, arguments, and other information required to work with the API. It also includes examples and tutorials to help make integration easier.

In any case, API documentation helps clients understand how it works and how they can effectively implement API. In short, it helps businesses and people interact with the code more easily.

You can find a great example of proper API documentation in how Dropbox’s API documentation works. You can learn more about it here .

5. Press Releases

Press releases are formal documents issued by an organization or agency to share news or to make an announcement. The idea is to set a precedent for releasing any key piece of information in a follow-up press conference, news release, or on a social media channel.

The press release emphasizes why the information is important to the general public and customers. It’s a fact-based document and includes multiple direct quotes from major company stakeholders, such as the CEO.

Usually, press releases have a very specific writing process. Depending on the feasibility, they may have an executive summary or follow the universal press release format.

You can find several examples of press releases from major companies like Microsoft and Nestle here , along with some writing tips.

6. Company Documents

Company documents can include various internal documents and orientation manuals for new employees. These documents can contain different information depending on their use.

For example, orientation manuals include:

The company’s history.
Organizational chart.
List of services and products.
Map of the facility.
Dress codes.

It may also include employee rights, responsibilities, operation hours, rules, regulations, disciplinary processes, job descriptions, internal policies, safety procedures, educational opportunities, common forms, and more.

Writing company documents requires good technical writing skills and organizational knowledge. Such help files assist new employees in settling into the company and integrating more efficiently.

Here are some great examples of orientation manuals you can check out.

7. Annual Reports

Annual reports are yearly updates on a company’s performance and other financial information. Annual reports directly correspond with company stakeholders and serve as a transparency tool.

The annual reports can also be technical reports in some cases. However, mostly they include stock performance, financial information, new product information, and key developments.

Technical writers who develop annual reports must compile all the necessary information and present it in an attractive form. It’s crucial to use creative writing and excellent communication skills to ensure that the maximum amount of information appears clearly and completely.

If the company is technical, such as a robotics company, the technical writer needs to develop a technical communication method that’s easy to digest.

You can check out some annual report examples and templates here .

8. Business Plans

Every company starts with a complete business plan to develop a vision and secure funding. If a company is launching a new branch, it still needs to start with a business plan.

In any case, the business plan has a few predetermined sections. To develop the ideal business plan, include the following sections in it.

Executive Summary – includes the business concept, product, or service, along with the target market. It may also include information on key personnel, legal entity, founding date, location, and brief financial information.
Product or Service Description – includes what the offering is, what value it provides, and what stage of development it is in currently.
Team Members – includes all the information on the management team.
Competitor and Market Analysis – includes a detailed analysis of the target market and potential competitors.
Organizational System – includes information on how the organizational structure would work.
Schedules – include start dates, hiring dates, planning dates, and milestones.
Risks and Opportunities – include profit and loss predictions and projections.
Financial Planning – includes planned income statements, liquidity measures, projected balance sheet, and more.
Appendix – includes the organizational chart, resumes, patents, and more.

The technical writer needs to work closely with the company stakeholders to develop a complete business plan.

According to your industry, you can check out hundreds of business plan samples and examples here .

Becoming an Expert Technical Writer

Becoming an expert technical writer is all about focusing on your strengths. For example, you should try to focus on one to two industries or a specific form of technical writing. You can do various writing assignments and check out technical writing samples to understand what you’re good with.

You can also check out user guides and get online help in determining your industry. Once you’ve nailed down an industry and technical writing type, you can start to focus on becoming an expert in it.

In any case, it always helps to check out technical writing examples before starting any project. Try to check out examples of the same industry and from a similar company. Start your writing process once you have a complete idea of what you need to do.

Since technical writing involves dealing with complex information, the writer needs to have a solid base on the topic. That may require past experience, direct technical knowledge, or an ability to understand multiple pieces of information quickly and effectively.

In becoming a technical writer, you may have to work with various other people, such as software developers, software engineers, human resources professionals, product designers, and other subject matter experts.

While most organizations tend to hire writers with a history in their fields, others opt for individuals with great writing skills and team them up with their employees.

Technical writers may also work with customer service experts, product liability specialists, and user experience professionals to improve the end-user experience. In any case, they work closely with people to develop digestible content for the end customers.

Today, you can also find several technical writers online. There is an increasing demand for technical writing because of the insurgence of SaaS companies, e-commerce stores, and more.

In the end, technical writers need to have a strong grasp of proper grammar, terminology, the product, and images, graphics, sounds, or videos to explain documentation.

If you are new to technical writing and are looking to break-in, we recommend taking our Technical Writing Certification Course , where you will learn the fundamentals of being a technical writer, how to dominate technical writer interviews, and how to stand out as a technical writing candidate.

We offer a wide variety of programs and courses built on adaptive curriculum and led by leading industry experts.

Work on projects in a collaborative setting
Take advantage of our flexible plans and community
Get access to experts, templates, and exclusive events

Become a Certified Technical Writer. Professionals finish the training with a full understanding of how to guide technical writer projects using documentation foundations, how to lead writing teams, and more.

Become a Certified UX Writer. You'll learn how to excel on the job with writing microcopy, content design, and creating conversation chatbots.

Become a Certified Grant Writer. In this course, we teach the fundamentals of grant writing, how to create great grant proposals, and how to stand out in the recruiting process to land grant writing jobs.

Please check your email for a confirmation message shortly.

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

Get our #1 industry rated weekly technical writing reads newsletter.

Your syllabus has been sent to your email

go to walkme.com

Technical writing: 12 examples for the future

In today’s digital world, software users are used to having intuitive digital experiences. There’s no mystery to consumer electronics: software from Apple, Google, and social media platforms help users do amazing things without technical expertise.

However, that doesn’t mean the world has become any simpler. In many industries, this is where technical writers step in to explain the most challenging aspects of processes and techniques. In technology companies, manufacturing, healthcare, financial planning, and more, technical documentation is essential for safe and effective user experiences.

In this article, we’ll look at the most important technical writing examples that help provide value to users and customers. Whether you are at the start of a technical writing career or in charge of customer experiences, these examples will show what your customers need.

Here’s what you’ll get in this article:

We’ll start by looking at a definition of technical writing.
Then, we’ll examine the twelve key forms of technical writing this year.
We’ll also assess some key tools you need to make technical writing easier.
Finally, we’ll look at some of the alternatives to technical writing.

Technical writing is an important part of the customer support experience . And even if you believe that the future of work is with generative AI, technical writing will be an important skill for future generations.

What is technical writing?

Technical writing is the art of conveying complex information clearly, concisely, and user-friendly. In the words of the UK government’s careers guidance , technical writers take “a user-centered approach to making complicated technical concepts easier to understand for a specialist audience.” It involves creating technical documents, such as user guides, manuals, and instructions, that provide explanations and insights on technical subjects.

Technical writing aims to help users understand and use products, systems, or processes effectively, making complex concepts accessible and promoting efficient communication between experts and non-experts.

It is a very different discipline from creative writing, and the best technical writers do not necessarily come from a background in academic training. Good technical writing does not need expressive descriptions or persuasive language: it just needs to be clear, accurate, and useful.

Technical writing is a great field to break into. There are plenty of good training options out there.

The twelve forms of technical writing that you need to know

In this section, we will introduce the twelve main technical writing examples that companies use today.

If you’re trying to improve your technical writing skills, you must ensure you understand all of these forms. On the other hand, if you’re running a business, you should think about how to use some (or all) of these types of writing.

User Manuals

User manuals are an essential form of technical writing that individuals need to know about due to their widespread presence and importance in various industries. User manuals provide users with crucial instructions, guidelines, and information on effectively and safely operating a product or utilizing a software application. They bridge the product or software’s technical complexities and the end-user’s understanding.

Writing great user manuals helps customers to navigate through features, troubleshoot issues, and maximize the benefits of a product or software. This technical writing example is less common today than it once was, but it’s still essential for many applications.

Installation Guides

Technical writers need to understand installation guides because they are crucial in ensuring the successful and accurate installation of products or software applications. Installation guides provide step-by-step instructions, procedures, and requirements for properly setting up and configuring a system or software.

In this writing, technical writers convey information about system requirements, dependencies, compatibility issues, and troubleshooting steps. These guides help users navigate the installation process smoothly, reduce errors, and ensure efficient deployment of products or software applications.

Software Documentation

Software documentation is a useful form of technical writing because it provides users with essential information, instructions, and guidance on effectively and efficiently using software applications. It serves as a comprehensive reference that helps users navigate the software’s features, settings, and functionalities, troubleshoot issues, and maximize the benefits of the software.

Technical writers can produce the best software documentation by understanding the target audience, writing clearly and concisely, using visual aids and examples to enhance understanding, adopting a task-oriented approach, and maintaining consistency in terminology and formatting.

Technical Reports

Technical reports are a useful form of technical writing as they allow for the detailed and structured communication of complex information, research findings, and analyses. They provide a comprehensive overview of a particular project, study, or investigation, presenting data, methodologies, and conclusions clearly and organized. Technical reports are valuable resources for decision-makers, stakeholders, and professionals in various fields.

When it comes to technical reports, clarity is the most important quality. A good technical report will have a clear structure, concise language, appropriate visual aids, and excellent editing.

Whitepapers

White papers are effective technical writing because they offer in-depth analysis, insights, and solutions to complex problems or emerging technologies. They serve as authoritative and persuasive documents that comprehensively understand a specific topic, presenting research, data, and evidence to support claims or recommendations.

Technical writers can produce excellent white papers by conducting thorough research to gather relevant data and industry insights, employing clear and engaging writing techniques to make the content accessible and compelling, and structuring the document logically and coherently, ensuring a smooth flow of information.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are effective technical writing because they provide detailed instructions and guidelines for carrying out specific tasks or processes consistently and efficiently. SOPs ensure that employees have clear direction on performing their duties, maintaining quality standards, and adhering to regulatory requirements. They help minimize errors, improve productivity, and promote a safe working environment.

Training Materials

Training materials are an important form of technical writing, providing comprehensive and structured information to facilitate learning and skill development. They are crucial in transferring knowledge and ensuring consistent training across individuals and teams.

Examples of written training materials include user manuals, online courses, instructional guides, training handbooks, and interactive tutorials. These materials offer step-by-step instructions, demonstrations, and exercises that empower learners to acquire new skills, understand complex concepts, and effectively utilize products or software applications.

Troubleshooting Guides

Troubleshooting guides are an important form of technical writing as they assist users in resolving issues and overcoming challenges related to products or software applications. These guides offer systematic steps, explanations, and solutions for diagnosing and addressing common problems.

By providing clear and concise instructions, technical writers empower users to troubleshoot and resolve issues independently, reducing the need for extensive technical support. Troubleshooting guides enhance user experience, minimize downtime, and increase user satisfaction.

Release Notes

Release notes are useful writing as they provide essential information about software updates, bug fixes, new features, and improvements to users and stakeholders. They help users stay informed about the changes in a software release and understand how it impacts their usage.

Expert technical writers can support the creation of release notes by effectively summarizing the changes clearly and concisely, organizing the information in a user-friendly format, and ensuring that the release notes are accurate, easy to understand, and accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.

Technical Specifications

Technical specifications are a convenient type of writing for users as they provide comprehensive details about a product or system’s functionality, features, and requirements. They serve as a valuable reference, enabling users to understand a product’s technical aspects and capabilities. The best technical writers support the creation of technical specifications by presenting the information in a clear, organized, and user-friendly.

They ensure the specifications are accurate, complete, and aligned with industry standards. Technical writers’ expertise ensures that technical specifications are an effective tool for users to make informed decisions and effectively engage with the product or system.

User Guides

User guides are an effective type of writing as they provide users with comprehensive instructions, information, and guidance on how to use a product or software application. They serve as a reliable resource, enabling users to understand the features, functionalities, and best practices associated with the product.

Knowledge Base Articles

Knowledge base articles are a “must-have” type of writing as they provide a centralized repository of valuable information, troubleshooting tips, and solutions to common user problems. They serve as a self-service resource, empowering users to find answers to their questions and resolve issues independently.

Hiring a great technical writer is important for creating knowledge base articles because they have the expertise to transform complex technical concepts into clear and concise content. A skilled technical writer can organize the articles effectively, ensure consistency and accuracy, and employ user-friendly language to enhance comprehension.

The technical writing tools you’ll need

To take your writing to the next level, you need all the help you can get to create the best results.

Today, the right software tools offer various features and capabilities to streamline the technical writing process, enhance collaboration, and produce high-quality documentation. The choice of tool often depends on specific requirements, preferences, and the nature of the technical writing project.

However, the following five packages are handy:

Adobe FrameMaker: A professional authoring and publishing tool specifically designed for technical documentation, with advanced features for large documents and structured content.
Confluence : A collaborative wiki-based platform that allows teams to create, organize, and share technical documentation, making it easy for multiple contributors to collaborate.
Snagit : A screen capture and image editing tool that enables technical writers to capture screenshots, annotate images, and create visual aids for documentation.
Git and GitHub : Version control systems that help manage revisions and collaboration on technical documentation, allowing multiple contributors to work on the same documentation project.
MadCap Flare : A powerful authoring and publishing tool that supports single-source publishing, content reuse, and multi-channel output, including online help systems and PDFs.
ChatGPT : Ok, we had to mention it. In 2023, AI applications and developments will be moving at break-neck speed. Current language models cannot replace technical writers: software like ChatGPT and Jasper can only replicate existing models and cannot check the precise technical details. Early in 2023, a McKinsey report clarified: “The landscape of risks and opportunities is likely to change rapidly in coming weeks, months, and years.” Keep up with the latest developments – and keep building technical writing skills.

Technical writing alternatives for the modern workplace

These days, technical writing is the only way to deliver clear instructions and documentation to your product’s users. Some alternatives will help you streamline support to employees and customers alike.

If technical writing isn’t doing everything you need, try one of these methods.

Video Tutorials : Instead of written documentation, video tutorials provide step-by-step instructions visually, making it easier for users to follow along.
Interactive Demos : Interactive demos allow users to interact with software or product in a simulated environment, guiding them through various features and functionalities.
Diagrams and Flowcharts : Diagrams and flowcharts visually represent processes, workflows, or system architectures, making it easier for users to understand complex systems or relationships.
Hands-on Workshops and Training Sessions : Hands-on workshops and training sessions allow users to learn through practical exercises and interactive sessions, facilitating hands-on experience and learning.
Digital adoption Platform (DAP): An integrated Digital Adoption Platform like WalkMe can deliver solutions where it matters most. Even in the most difficult software, employees get in-app experiences that solve their problems at the point of use.

Get your technical writing in order

Regarding technical work, your writing style has to fit the task. Whether that’s user instruction manuals, employee handbooks, manufacturing guidelines, or any kind of technical communication, it’s essential to have good practice in clear, precise, and well-structured writing.

Just remember:

Technical writing work gives users clear answers about complex processes.
Some major forms of technical writing include user manuals, knowledge guides, whitepapers, and technical reports.
You can support your skills in technical writing with appropriate tools
There are some alternatives to creating technical content – through software, video, infographics, and more.

Overall, technical writing may just be one of the tools you can access for moving staff along their digital learning curve . But the best technical writing can give your staff and customers a clear compass for how to succeed.

Like what you are reading?

By clicking the button, you agree to the Terms and Conditions . Click Here to Read WalkMe's Privacy Policy

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thanks for subscribing to WalkMe’s newsletter!

GatherContent is becoming Content Workflow by Bynder. Read More

7 best technical writing examples to improve your skills

Afoma Umesi

Gathercontent contributor, writer, 6 minute read.

Interviewed by:

Lead with Content

How to put content at the centre of digital transformation.

Padma Gillen

Digital Content Consultant

It’s no wonder that technical writing is a fast-growing field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of technical writers will grow up to 12% from 2020 to 2030–a pace that’s faster than the average for all occupations.

If you’re looking to improve your technical writing skills and break into the field but are unsure how to do it, this article will help.

We’ll show you what technical writing is, how to write a technical piece (step by step), and then share some of the best technical writing examples you’ll ever find.

What is technical writing?

Technical writing is any writing designed to explain complex, technical, and specialized information to audiences who may or may not be familiar with them . It is typically used in technical and occupational fields like engineering, robotics, computer hardware and software, medicine, finance, and consumer electronics.

Usually, technical writing falls into one of three categories depending on whom it’s written for:

Consumer-directed technical writing refers to technical content written for end-users or consumers. Good examples include user manuals, employee handbooks, standard operating procedures (SOP), software user documentation (help files), troubleshooting guides, and legal disclaimers .
Expert-to-expert technical writing is written chiefly for a knowledgeable audience. It includes scientific papers, medical case studies, annual business reports, and legal case reviews .
Technical marketing content is technical information presented in a digestible format to promote a product or service. Think marketing case studies, white papers, product brochures, press releases, and business plans and proposals .

Like most types of content , technical writing is complex and nuanced in its own way. Let’s break down the steps to writing technical content that appeals to your audience.

6 Steps to Writing a Technical Piece That People Actually Want to Read

Instruction manuals, assembly guides, and research papers, oh my . Technical writing can quickly turn into a snooze fest if not done correctly.

How do you create a technical piece that people want to read?

1. Identify Your Audience

Knowing your audience is super important, especially when writing technical content.

For example, the new dad learning to build his first crib may have a different level of medical knowledge (and sheer focus) than the experienced doctor reading a medical research paper.

When you have a clear idea of who you expect to read your piece, you can adjust your vocabulary, tone, and framing accordingly.

This allows you to meet your reader at their point of knowledge .

2. Dig Deep in Your Research

As a technical writer, you’ll be guiding your reader through entirely unfamiliar territory.

You might be explaining how a new electronic tool works, what to expect from their new workplace, or what happened before their firm took on a new legal case. It is essential that you fully understand your subject matter .

You can only teach what you know, and knowledge gaps show when you aren’t thorough in your research.

Place yourself in your readers’ shoes. Imagine you had zero knowledge of the topic at hand and ensure your research covers all potential questions that come to mind. ‍

💡 Tip : If you need help understanding your topic, work with subject matter experts. Here are three helpful resources for collaborating with SMEs:

How to create great content with busy Subject Matter Experts
How to collaborate with a Subject Matter Expert
How to get the content you need from subject matter experts

3. Create an Outline

We recommend creating an outline to give you a sense of what you need to cover in your piece. This can also help identify knowledge gaps as you conduct your research.

When you’re writing longer-form content like white papers or case studies, an outline can serve as a marker to remind you of what you need to include .

In lieu of an outline, you can use a template . Some technical writing, such as business plans, have industry-accepted formats, including sections like an executive summary and competitor analysis.

4. Focus on Readability

Technical writing is not creative writing—you're writing to teach, not inspire or entertain. When tackling complicated topics, using readable sentences can make your work more enjoyable to read .

On the other hand, if you’re verbose or use words that are hard to understand, you’ll only frustrate your reader. If you want to improve readability in technical content, try these tips:

Use simple language: Strive for shorter, direct sentences that are easy to follow, and avoid passive voice wherever possible.
Use subheadings: For longer-form content like user documentation, white papers, and research papers , adding subheadings can break up long text walls.
Add bolded sections and callouts: Bolding text and highlighting paragraphs or callouts for emphasis will make reading easier.
Hyperlinks and jump links: If you’re writing technical content for webpages, add hyperlinks to any material you reference and jump links to other sections of your piece for easier navigation.

5. Add Visuals

We’re all about the words and the writing, but visuals can make your technical writing easier to understand! In technical writing, adding visuals is less of a luxury and more of a necessity . Visuals such as flowcharts, screenshots, and illustrations can add a much-needed dose of cheer to text-heavy documents.

Whether you’re creating a user manual or annual report for stakeholders, everyone will be happier with product drawings showing the directions or a pie chart displaying the numbers.

6. Cut the Fluff

When you’ve got all the words on paper, it’s time to double-check the facts with collaborators . Don’t be afraid to cut unnecessary information during this writing phase.

How do you identify the fluff? Removing fluff doesn’t impact the readers’ understanding of your text. It could be a word, a sentence, a paragraph, or a step in the directions. Every word in your technical document should count.

7 of the Best Technical Writing Examples from Technical SMEs

With some help from a few technical content experts, we’ve chosen different forms of technical writing across various industries so you can see the skill in action.

Pipedrive’s Developer Documentation

pipedrive developer documentation - technical writing examples

Developer documentation is essential for technical communication, and Pipedrive does it well. This technical document is geared toward layman product users and must be easy to understand, even while providing complex information. Notice the use of jump links and the callout box on the page.

Outfunnel’s Head of Marketing, Katheriin Liibert says about Pipedrive’s technical writing,

Digimind Consumer Brand Footprint Ranking 2021 Report

Digimind white paper - technical writing examples

Digimind goes the extra mile with their visuals in this white paper/industry report . It’s eye-catching and information–all the while remaining thoroughly professional and readable. Being a B2B brand does not mean boring text-only marketing copy.

University of Wisconsin Onboarding Tool Kit

University of Wisconsin’s onboarding handbook - technical writing examples

This onboarding/employee handbook wins for being easy to read with short sentences and bullet points that improve readability. The human resources department also adds quick links to any relevant documents new employees need to download or fill out.

Cell Reports Medical Study

[Cell medical report - technical writing examples]

Yes, a medical research paper with pictures!

Dr. Sophia Milbourne , a stem cell biologist and freelance science communicator, appreciates that this paper is a “great summary of the subject matter.” More importantly, Milbourne mentions that

LG Refrigerator Manual

[LG user manual - technical writing examples]

This basic user manual from LG gives users an overview of their new product and helps them make the best use of it. (The diagram will come in handy when an online article tells you to adjust the control panel and you’re not sure which knob it is.)

Mashable India’s User Agreement

Mashable India legal user agreement - technical writing examples

This is an excellent example of a consumer-directed technical document. Mashable India’s user agreement is a technical legal document including their disclaimer, use license, and usage conditions.

Lawyer and content writer Ejike Umesi acknowledges that the company follows the numbered styling typical of these documents. He says,

Slack Help Center

The Slack Help Center is an excellent example of technical writing that speaks to the layman. Slack is known for its brilliant UX copywriting . Amruta Ranade, Staff Technical Writer for Airbyte, admires the company’s documentation writing style.

“Slack’s Help Center shows incredible user-awareness. The information displayed is contextual, concise, and complete–it helps the user accomplish their task without distracting them or sidetracking them with extraneous information.”

Ramp Up Your Technical Writing

Whether you’re looking to set up a personalized template or collaborate with multiple editors in real-time , GatherContent helps you elevate your technical writing workflow.

With GatherContent, you can build templates for any content you create, including case studies! GatherContent also has helpful resources for helping you and your team prioritize user-led content .

If you publish your content online , you can connect GatherContent to your CMS of choice for seamless exporting. Planning, creating, and sharing great technical content doesn’t have to be so… technical.

Start your GatherContent free trial today.

Content Creation: The Essential Guide

Practical advice to help you create effective content for your audience and your business..

About the author

Related posts you might like, platform features.

Content Hub
Content Project Management
Content Planning
Content Templates
Content Style Guides
Content Management
Content Workflow
Content Calendar
Content Creation & Collaboration
Beta Features
What's New
Productivity
Integrations
What is ContentOps?
Resources and Events
Our Partners
Customer Advisory Board
Join our team
Security & Backups
Terms of Service Data Processing Agreement
Terms of Website Use
Global Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
Help Centre
API Documentation

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Link to facebook
Link to linkedin
Link to twitter
Link to youtube
Writing Tips

A Guide to Technical Writing (With Examples)

4-minute read

5th May 2023

You can find technical writing in lots of places, including in your home, at your job, in many industries, and in businesses of all sizes. If you need help with business writing specifically, check out how we can assist you .

In today’s post, we’ll break down what technical writing is and how to do it effectively. We’ll also provide some handy examples.

What Is Technical Writing?

Technical writing doesn’t always look very technical! It can be anything that describes how to do a task or how to operate a machine or system. Or it can cover a specialized topic. Technical writing includes recipes in your favorite cookbook, board game instructions, operator manuals, health and safety regulations, legal documents, and financial reports.

Instructions for Carrying Out a Task

This type of technical writing can be a recipe for a cake, the instructions for a board game, tips on how to walk your dog to heel, or the script for a social media video on how to cut your own hair.

Operating Manuals for Machinery, Appliances, or Systems

Technical writing can also be the user guide for a dishwasher, for a factory machine that makes cardboard boxes, a “how to” guide for spreadsheets, or instructions for changing the oil in your motorcycle.

Specialized Topics

The list here could be very, very long! Technical writing on specialized topics includes a company’s business reports, a medical consultant’s letter to a patient, health and safety regulations, employment policies, and legal documents.

So How Do I Produce a Great Piece of Technical Writing?

Let’s take it in three stages: Who? What? How?

Who Is It For?

In any type of writing, knowing your audience is important. This is particularly true of technical writing. Here are some examples of who might read technical writing:

· A renter of an apartment that needs details on their lease

· An electrical engineer who needs to know how the wiring is laid out in the apartment block

· The janitor of that same building who needs to know the location of the emergency lights

· The occupant of apartment 61, who needs to know how to use the oven in their kitchen

They all need information presented to them, but what information do they need?

What Do They Need?

The renter needs a legal document that leaves no room for doubt about their legal rights and obligations and those of their landlord. The document will be very detailed, containing terms that need careful explanation.

The electrical engineer needs accurate, clear information about the wiring, as they could get hurt or cause harm to someone else if the diagram is inaccurate.

The janitor needs clear directions and a map of where the emergency lights are.

The occupant of apartment 61 needs instructions that are written in plain English so they can use their oven safely.

How Should Technical Writing Be Composed?

Follow these steps when writing a technical document:

· Research and know your subject thoroughly.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

· Decide on the appropriate writing style. Just because it’s technical, doesn’t mean it has to contain lots of jargon . Be concise, be direct, and be straightforward.

· Consider whether you need to include diagrams, maps, images, charts, and/or tables.

· If writing instructions, take it one step at a time, write objectively , and make sure the instructions work!

Examples of Technical Writing

Let’s look at some examples:

The first version contains unnecessary words, but the warnings are not specific enough. The instructions should be concise and clear. In the second version, the danger is stated right away, and the critical warnings are concise and specific.

In these examples, the first version is unnecessarily wordy. It provides a lot of detail for minor tasks but gives vague instructions for bigger tasks. The second version is much clearer. The instructions are easier to follow, and they include each necessary step.

Good technical writing needs the following attributes:

1. Relevance

2. Accuracy

4. Accessibility

5. Simplicity

Really good technical writing will include these attributes every time.

Is technical writing difficult?

Technical writing does not have to be difficult if you follow our guide and do your research beforehand.

Are there professional bodies for technical writers?

There are several professional organizations for technical writing. This list from UTA Libraries is very useful.

What can I do if I’m not sure that my technical writing style is appropriate to my subject?

We have experts in many fields who can check your writing and advise on style .

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

What is market research.

No matter your industry, conducting market research helps you keep up to date with shifting...

8 Press Release Distribution Services for Your Business

In a world where you need to stand out, press releases are key to being...

3-minute read

How to Get a Patent

In the United States, the US Patent and Trademarks Office issues patents. In the United...

The 5 Best Ecommerce Website Design Tools

A visually appealing and user-friendly website is essential for success in today’s competitive ecommerce landscape....

The 7 Best Market Research Tools in 2024

Market research is the backbone of successful marketing strategies. To gain a competitive edge, businesses...

Google Patents: Tutorial and Guide

Google Patents is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about patents, whether...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Search the site:

WordPress Retainers
Enterprise Development
Maintenance & Support

18 Expert Tips to Foster Creativity in Technical Writing

Technical writing job continues to grow over the years. In fact, it is #4 in Best Creative and Media Jobs and is expected to have a further vertical rise in 2022.

By definition, technical writing is any written form of writing or drafting technical communication used in a variety of technical and occupational fields, such as computer hardware and software, engineering, chemistry, aeronautics, robotics, finance, medical and consumer electronics, and biotechnology.

Learn how these skilled writers add creativity in writing technical articles that help readers understand the subject effectively.

Christoph Trappe, The Authentic Storytelling Project

Any form of writing can use creativity. Find a new way to tell the story AND remember to actually tell a story. Sometimes cheesy can be fun and work for some brands even.

Warren Whitlock, WarrenWhitlock.com

All writing should use stories. Especially technical subjects. It’s science! Our brains are wired to store information as stories.

Our memories are connected to things like when we heard something, how we feel about things, and how things work together. Weave a story and your writing will be enjoyed and remembered.

Mariah Obiedzinski, MedTouch

Technical doesn’t have to mean dry. Infusing technical writing with conversational, recognizable language not only makes the piece more interesting to read but also makes it easier for readers to digest.

Less processing time gets them to the next step quickly and efficiently.

Lilach Bullock, LilachBullock.com

It can be difficult to find the right balance between the two, but I am a firm believer that injecting some of the writers’ personalities into technical writing can make for a better reading experience.

You can still be objective and critical even if you let your personality influence your writing; whether it’s a certain writing style, a pop culture reference, a real-life example, it brings more value to your writing and makes it stand out. That said, you also need to judge when it’s OK to show off your own writer personality and when you need to tone it down.

Nathan Bracy, Revenue River

Regardless of the technical nature of your blog, you have to understand that you’re creating content for people. Being creative in technical writing is a great way to present information in a new manner, and it’s a lot easier than you think.

Good writers will be able to creatively share information that makes it feel like their writing isn’t overly technical, and it’s easy to consume. This makes it valuable, which is the ultimate goal for any content piece.

Nina Mancuso, NinaEMancuso.com

It is always difficult to be creative with Technical Writing because the clients should always follow our written processes step-by-step for the best results.

However, whenever I edit content from the software developers, I look at the sentences as if they are a word puzzle.

Oftentimes, software developers have their own language, and it can be difficult to translate their words into procedures that our clients can understand. When that situation happens, I take apart the entire paragraph and read each sentence individually so that I can understand the process.

After I have an understanding, I rewrite the paragraph to be as clear and concise as possible by deleting the unnecessary words and restructuring the sentences. I enjoy puzzles so this editing aspect of Technical Writing is the most creative for me.

Unfortunately, I do not do anything creative that would make our manuals and help systems more interesting to read because most people using our documentation need it to install software or run updates, and those are specific procedures. But I do use colorful highlighters for all of my meetings and tasks because it is a fun way for me to keep track of all of my responsibilities.

Maddy Osman, The Blogsmith

There’s a story in even the most boring topics. The trick is to dig deep enough to find it. It’s not enough to consult just one source or one type of content.

Consider video content, infographics, interviews, and more as part of your initial information gathering.

When writing and editing your technical piece, keep asking yourself “Is this something my target customer would actually want to read?”. If the answer is “No”, a rewrite is due until you strike gold.

Zac Johnson, Blogging.org

If you want to bring boring content to life, it’s all about using visuals, quick headlines, and breaking apart your content. This is simply one of the best ways to get your point across, while also making it easier for your audience to consume and stay engaged.

With more people using mobile devices and focusing on visuals in social media, this is how content creation and marketing need to be approached as attention spans continue to drop.

Srish Agrawal, Srish.com

When publishing content on our site or to be shared on social media, we like to focus on infographics and visual graphs.

Many people think you need to have a lot of great internal data to accomplish this, but you can also use industry reports and simply reference them as the source.

Turn this data into an infographic and watch as it appeals to a much greater audience and receives more social shares in the process.

Sumit Bansal, Trump Excel

While the scope for being creative is limited in technical writing, we can think a little out of the box and make our article better. Before writing an article, first, decide the purpose of the article.

If it’s meant to answer a query, it’s better to keep it to the point and try and answer the query as soon as possible. You can take more creative freedom when you are writing an article to engage. One of the things that I have found really effective is using a current trend or buzzwords in your articles.

In one of my articles , I used the data from the ‘Game Of Thrones series to show my readers how to create a dashboard. I could have done it with any boring dataset, but with a little out-of-the-box thinking, I was able to create something that got a lot of responses and engagement.

Since I have to often explain difficult concepts and formulas in Excel to my readers, I try to take practical examples to make it easy. For example, in one of the Excel functions, I tried explaining it by taking an example of a chessboard .

James Nuttall, Ben Sherman

While the likes of instruction manuals, white papers, and journal articles don’t leave much room for adjectives, quotes or metaphors, creativity can often be fostered in the approach rather than in the actual practice.

Technical writers need to be creative in their way of thinking; what are the most digestible and effective way of presenting the information they are given? How will it be most accessible to all levels of readers?

This process takes a great deal of experimentation, which requires a creative thinker to be able to put together documents that can be interpreted and understood by all ranges of experience levels.

In turn, it often means that documents need to be drafted and re-drafted until the technical writer is satisfied that the documents are accessible for all levels. This can often stretch your creativity further than trying to write the greatest American novel ever could.

Paul Francis, The BHW Group

It is completely possible to include creativity in technical writing. In fact, we believe creativity is paramount to constructing a great article.

Technical writing can often be dense and difficult for readers to get through if you only present them with technical content.

Finding creative ways to frame your content not only makes your writing more relatable but also distinguishes you from the crowd. Here are some tips we’ve found to help engage readers and boost the quality of your writing:

References: When showing example code and samples, use well-known characters, films, or books to make it easier to follow. Not only does this liven up your article, it also leverages shared culture and experiences to convey information in a different way that can make complex topics simpler to digest.
Analogies: Use non-technical analogies when possible to lighten the tone of an example or section. Even technical writers struggle to make it through an entire article that only talks about technical things. This practice also helps you avoid littering your article with too much jargon that may impede someone’s understanding if they are not an expert in your field.
Story-building : It’s okay to be funny! It’s also more than okay to construct some sort of narrative to the way the content is presented – people love a good story and this is a chance to add some character to your article.
Visuals: Whether it’s a diagram or simply a cover photo for your blog, having visuals can break up the monotony of your writing (both literally and metaphorically) and give readers another way to absorb important contextual information on the subject topic.

John Lukaszczyk, Majux

I do SEO writing for law firms, so I avoid loose or light language as much as I can to keep things serious – but sometimes examples of conduct/situations are a good place to get creative.

Technical writing unavoidably uses complex language, and it’s sometimes impossible not to give your readers a headache. It’s important to lighten up your writing whenever you can.

Most of the time, any sort of narrative passage or conversational language can seem incredibly out of place. However, that doesn’t mean you should wholly avoid it.

Sometimes breaking away from a serious tone is exactly what your readers need. Especially if you’re writing for a tech audience (they’re usually a little less “stuffy”) or writing in-house materials (like manuals or documentation), adding creativity to your writing can keep your readers entertained and focused.

As long as your boss/supervisor is okay with the tone and it doesn’t detract from the tone of the content, go for it.

Justin May, Dock

Technical Writers can absolutely be creative. You often need it when you write documentation for products to imagine how a person will first interact with it. But there isn’t too much creativity allowed in the writing itself.

That doesn’t mean technical writers can’t use their creativity in other outlets. Much like many things in life, creativity is a skill that can be practiced and honed.

David Scarola, The Alternative Board

Based on the research, TAB Vice President David Scarola suggests the following sales tips for B2B business owners:

1. Don’t sell. Teach.

According to TAB’s survey, over half of B2B buyers believe the information they receive from vendors is too sales-oriented.

Win over customers by providing them with the educational resources they need – how your product works and why it’s so important for their industry – rather than focusing on making a sale. By teaching them, rather than selling to them, you create a trust-based relationship.

2. Generate positive reviews of your offering.

One of the best stories to tell about your product or service is a success story. With 93% of business owners turning to independent reviews before making a purchasing decision, it’s a good idea to work with precious customers and online influencers to develop a positive online presence for your product/service.

Third-party validation can make a big difference when convincing a business owner to make a purchase. It removes a lot of the guesswork and potential risk associated with the purchase. A recommendation from a friend, family member, peer, or even online influencer builds a powerful layer of trust, which may even shorten your sales cycle.

Tim Brown, Hook Agency

Recognize it’s crowded content marketing, take inspiration from the top 3, and take a new spin.:

Talking through technical writing with people writing on our blog, or our client’s blogs – we consistently talk about the fact that the content market is incredibly crowded.
To poke your head above the crowd, you need to take a fresh new spin on it – get creative in the way you position it, and get to the point quickly, before going more in-depth.

With this formula, and by reviewing all of the top items that currently rank for a particular topic and trying to combine the top 3 in a ‘super article’ you can break through the ‘boring content wall.

Daniel Houseman, Comm-Works

Frequently with technical writing, you are discussing highly complex concepts that people have little or no interest in. In other words, it can get dry quickly. Readers will let their minds drift if they cannot personally connect to what they are reading. Therefore, your writing needs to be both clear and engaging to be successful. This, however, requires great creativity.

Technical writers often need to think out of the box to create engaging content. They must use their creativity to make complicated concepts relevant and fascinating to their readers. One way to approach this is by asking yourself, “ How can I make this interesting for me?” If you enjoy writing the piece, chances are people will enjoy reading it as well.

Another way technical writers can generate interest in their piece is by connecting the topic to things the audience knows and understands. Putting complex concepts in the context of situations the audience has already experienced will make your writing more compelling. The connection, however, is not always clear. It is up to the writer to find a creative context that is both relatable to the reader and relevant to the writing. While it may be difficult at times, the final product is much more intriguing to the reader.

Bonus Tip: Define your audience and create a persona.

Technical writers have a certain audience in mind while they create a document every time. Whether it’s a superior, a colleague, or a client, they realize that each reader will have distinct demands and expectations. That is why establishing your target audience from the start and considering them at every stage of the writing process is critical.

Creating a persona is one approach to get really specific with your audience. A persona is a sort of imaginary person that represents all of the qualities of your perfect reader. You may ensure that you’re always adapting your message to the appropriate individuals by taking the time to develop your persona thoroughly.

When writing for a technical audience, it is important to remember that your reader may not have the same level of expertise as you do. As a result, it is important to use clear and concise language that can be easily understood. In addition, technical terms should be defined clearly and unambiguously. Finally, technical specifications and other information should be presented in an easy-to-follow format. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can ensure that your technical writing is accessible to all readers.

Wrapping Up

Writing should never be a chore. The more you enjoy writing, the more you will do it and improve your skills. Remember to follow the guidelines and make them your own when you work on your next article. If you allow creativity and technical writing to go together, they can work in tandem effectively.

Struggling with Creating Website Content?

We have a team of dedicated content producers building high-quality content for different industries. Find out how you can strengthen your brand, improve your online presence, increase your visibility and build an audience of dedicated customers.

Team DevriX

This article is crafted by DevriX's seasoned marketing team, boasting over four decades of collective expertise in crafting sophisticated marketing funnels, devising comprehensive content frameworks and pillars, implementing engaging email campaigns, and creating impactful social media content designed for scalability.

Our marketing experts specialize in the complete spectrum of inbound marketing strategies. As an accredited HubSpot Agency Partner and a Semrush Partner, we engage in meticulous research, blending our extensive experience with the unique insights of our highly skilled team.

We set benchmarks in content creation by incorporating cutting-edge marketing trends, leveraging in-depth industry research, and utilizing state-of-the-art AI tools for data segmentation and captivating content hooks. Our proficiency extends across a diverse range of sectors, including working with SMEs, Fortune 1000 companies, global B2B brands, major publishing entities, WooCommerce platforms, business directories, and affiliate networks.

What Is Technical Writing?

Written by Scott Wilson

What is technical writing? Technical writing is the process of providing documentation and instruction for technical processes, procedures, or equipment. It provides accessible cues, techniques, and guidance for users of programs or machinery. Technical writers need both advanced writing skills and an understanding of the technology or systems they will be describing.

Technical writing is a category of expository writing: a written work designed to explain facts or process clearly and unambiguously to the target audience. You find technical writing in all kinds of places today:

User manuals for every kind of product or service
Help files embedded in computer programs
App introduction screens and overlays
YouTube training video scripts

Any effort to document how a product works or how to use it will fall into the category of technical writing.

As the world has become a more technology-driven environment, technical writing has become one of the essential writing skillsets needed by corporations and other organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for technical writers over the next decade is well above average, running at 12 percent. It’s a writing field that pays well too. The BLS shows technical writers earning an average of $81,470 per year. The top 10 percent rake in more than $125,010 annually.

Becoming skilled at technical writing is one way that any writer can find a path to a healthy income using their skills. And getting a college degree is the best way to become a technical writer today.

How Is Technical Writing Used Today?

Traditional kinds of technical writing could include:

Legal case analyses
Corporate operating procedures
Setup guides for computers
Software user manuals
Programming interface documentation
Product case studies

The information technology explosion and mass adoption of highly complex software systems and devices changed all that.

The technical writing process today requires both a special kind of writer and a special kind of writing. Technical writers must:

Be able to assess and understand the technology and processes they are being asked to document
Be able to work closely with engineers or developers.
Have a flair for using language to take highly technical concepts and explain them in simple, easy-to-grasp ways

And even as technology becomes more intuitive and seamless, technical writing is essential to the success of any mass market tech product launch. Even as it becomes more and more unnecessary to explain the complexities of software to users, technical writing is edging into the marketing world to ensure products are described accurately.

Command of metaphor, a broad vocabulary, and strong research skills are essential in technical writing. These are all skills that can be picked up through creative writing studies.

What Is the Goal of Technical Writing?

The goal of technical writing is to take a subject that is mysterious to the reader and make it clear. Technical writers are a kind of translator: they find ways to take complex information or processes and deliver it to the target reader in a way that is understandable, or even intuitive.

No one reads technical manuals or help articles for fun. There is also a need for technical writing to be as brief as possible. Finding ways to restate facts or procedures quickly but clearly is the real art of technical writing. The skill of getting directly to the point without leaving out any necessary pieces of information is the real art of technical writing.

What Is an Example of Technical Writing?

Corporate environments are full of technical writing. Reports, employee manuals, financial analyses and other memos and work products are often examples of technical writing. As a consumer, any new product you buy will also come with examples of technical writing. Every phone, food processor, or car sold today comes with some kind of user manual—that’s technical writing, too.

But technical writing is no longer restricted to traditional formats. Today, companies are working harder than ever to reach users in media they prefer. That’s lead to an explosion of YouTube or TikTok how-to videos… the scripts for which are all examples of technical writing.

Finally, a lot of technical writing has made it into technology products themselves. The next time you get a little pop-up describing a feature you are trying to use, or go through an intro screen with a tooltip, you’re reading a very concise, very tightly crafted piece of technical writing.

How To Get Into Technical Writing

There is big demand for talented technical writers today, but that doesn’t mean just anyone can apply.

Technical writers typically come to the field by one of two different routes:

Earning a degree and developing expertise in a technical field , then developing writing skills in order to document that field clearly.
Earning a degree in English or related subjects and then developing detailed understanding of a technical field in order to describe it accurately

That means acquiring two different kinds of education at some point in your career path. On either route, a degree or a certificate in writing is an option to help you fulfill one of those two legs.

Is Technical Writing a Good Career?

It’s also a lucrative path, as long as you earn at least a bachelor’s degree. The average salary for technical writers for 2021 according to BLS was $78,060 per year. The top ten percent, though, make more than $125,010 annually.

The job involves far more than writing. Unlike many writers, technical writers are almost always part of team. They have to perform work such as:

Interviewing engineers and other technical staff for information on products and processes
Reviewing work material and using products they will describe
Refine technical documentation based on end-user comments and questions

All of this comes with deadlines, which can make technical writing both fast-paced and stressful compared to some other writing jobs.

But it’s also exciting. Working in groundbreaking industries on new and innovative products is a kick. It’s also a constant opportunity to improve, honing your skills and knowledge to stay up-to-date with new trends and technologies.

One obstacle for many people interested in technical writing are technical skills. It’s important for a technical writer to be able to grasp the technology they are writing about sufficiently to explain it to someone else.

If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough. ~ Variously attributed to Albert Einstein and Richard Feynman

Of course, just understanding the technology is only half the battle. Learning how to write about it is an undervalued but equally important skill. Many technical writing programs exist to help teach the basic skills and expectations on the writing side of the job, including:

Written communications
Digital literacy
Information management
Technology and culture

These programs also frequently offer degree tracks or concentrations in various industries that rely heavily on technical writers, such as health sciences or information technology.

Technical Writing Certification

In order to write a good user manual, you have to go beyond general understanding and into practical experience. For example, if you’re writing technical documentation for video editing software, you can’t just imagine how a video editor would use the app. You’d have to use it yourself and consult the developers who built it.

Second, consider enrolling in courses run by organizations such as:

The Society for Technical Communication (STC)
American Medical Writing Association (AMWA)
National Association of Science Writers (NASW)
International Technical Communication Qualifications Foundation (ITCQF)

Acquiring certification from one of these associations shows hiring managers that you’re serious.

The first step in getting any one of these specialized certifications is to enroll in the online courses these organizations offer.

Although these certifications offer the basic skills in expository writing and description that a technical writer needs, they may not be the end of the road in writing education. Writers are always growing, and creative writing programs are one option that offer enormous potential to polish all kinds of writing skills.

How To Improve Technical Writing Skills Through a Degree in Creative Writing

Technical writing has transitioned from a dry, by-the-numbers presentation of facts and features to a more user-friendly, tech-savvy field. Attention spans have been dropping through the technology era: in 2000, the average human attention span was 12 seconds. In 2013, it was only 8 seconds. That’s less than a goldfish. But it’s what technical writers have to work with.

That means creativity is the name of the game in getting technical data to the people who need it. The technical writer of tomorrow may need to be as familiar with screenwriting as manual formatting; they may have to work within the bounds of tiny tooltips or to create evocative stories to tell during first-use tutorials.

Although these are all kinds of expository writing, creativity and imagination are absolutely required to accomplish them. You need inspiration and flair to fit good communications into the time and space available to technical writers today. Creative writing degrees help you develop exactly those skills .

Creative Writing Programs Develop Different Perspectives To Help You Reach Your Audience

With broad exposure to different kinds of writing and literature, challenging assignments, constant feedback, and a diverse audience of fellow students and professors, studies in creative writing hone your ability to reach readers on every level.

Part of that comes through reading assignments in the program itself. Students are expected to read and analyze a wide range of different works by various authors. That process will expose you to many new techniques and ideas for making connections with different groups of readers.

Creative Writing Degrees Exercise All Your Writing Muscles

Creative writing programs are also well known for the sheer volume of writing and polishing that are required. This is excellent practice for technical writers, who frequently progress through multiple drafts and iterations. You’ll learn to take feedback and incorporate it into your work, as well as hone every paragraph down to polished perfection.

That level of commitment and production also builds necessary writing skills like research and outlining. Although the subject matter in a creative writing program may be different, the process of developing knowledge and breaking down concepts through outlining are key skill for every technical writer to develop.

In an era where technical writing is going through big changes, a creative writing degree will help you redefine the field for tomorrow. With core skills in the areas that make all writers great, creative writing graduates have everything they need to bend their career toward any field that interests them.

2021 US Bureau of Labor Statistics job market salary figures for Technical Writers reflect national data. Conditions in your area may vary. Data Accessed September 2022.

19 Technical Writing Examples: A Comprehensive Exploration

Published on Jan. 03, 2024

Introduction:

As we embark on this exploration of technical writing examples, we delve into a realm where precision meets eloquence, and complexity finds its voice. This journey will unravel the multifaceted nature of technical writing, showcasing its indispensability in the world of business communication. From the intricate details of API documentation to the grand narratives of annual reports, each example serves as a testament to the transformative power of words in the technological landscape. Let's embark on this illuminating journey, dissecting the nuances and unraveling the significance of examples of technical writing in shaping the narrative of modern business.

What is Technical Writing?

Technical writing is a specialized form of communication that distills complex and technical information into clear, accessible, and user-friendly documents. It serves as the bridge between subject matter experts and end-users, translating intricate concepts into understandable language. In essence, technical writing is the art of conveying information effectively and efficiently, with a primary focus on clarity, precision, and usability. This discipline encompasses a diverse range of documents, each tailored to specific contexts and audiences. Examples of technical writing span from user manuals and standard operating procedures to white papers, case studies, and beyond. Its versatility lies in its ability to adapt to the unique requirements of various industries, making it an indispensable tool for conveying critical information in an accessible manner.

Types of Technical Writing:

Before delving into the various examples of technical writing, let's first explore the four broader types of technical writing. Subsequently, we will discuss 19 curated technical writing examples spanning across these four broader categories. Each example listed represents a distinct type of technical writing.

A. Instructional Documents:

Instructional documents guide users through specific tasks, processes, or operations. They aim to provide step-by-step instructions for effective implementation.

Detailed procedures.
Clear explanations.
Visual aids (diagrams, charts).
User-centric language.
Emphasis on clarity and simplicity.
Focus on actions and outcomes.

B. Informative Documents:

Informative documents provide in-depth information on a particular topic, often for educational or decision-making purposes. They offer analysis, insights, and recommendations.

Detailed analysis.
Recommendations or solutions.
Supporting data and evidence.
Objective and factual tone.
Focus on conveying knowledge.
Targeted at decision-makers or those seeking comprehensive information.

C. Business-Oriented Documents:

Business-oriented documents serve specific business functions, such as project proposals, financial reports, or marketing materials. They are designed to meet the needs of the business environment.

Project details or financial data.
Market analysis.
Strategic plans or proposals.
Business language and terminology.
Goal-oriented content.
Emphasis on business strategies and outcomes.

D. Specialized Formats:

Specialized formats cater to unique situations or audiences. Examples include API documentation for developers or business plans outlining strategic goals.

Technical specifications (for APIs).
Strategic goals and objectives (for business plans).
Specialized content tailored to the audience.
Adherence to specific industry standards.
Technical language and details.
Tailored to meet the needs of a specialized audience.

Similarities and Differences:

19 Technical Writing Examples:

Examples of instructional documents, 1. user manuals:.

User manuals serve as foundational instructional documents designed to guide users through the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of products. An example is a user manual for a smartphone, providing detailed instructions on features, functions, and problem-solving. These manuals are instrumental for businesses, reducing support inquiries, enhancing user satisfaction, and fostering a positive product experience.

While the specific structure may vary depending on the nature of the product or system, here is a common outline for user manuals:

A real world example of a user manual is the Apple Watch User Guide .

user manual as an example of technical writing

Tip : Remember that the clarity and simplicity of language are crucial in user manuals. Use a consistent and easy-to-understand writing style, and include visuals like diagrams, screenshots, and illustrations to enhance comprehension. Additionally, keep the manual updated as the product evolves or changes.

2. Procedural Manuals:

Procedural manuals offer step-by-step instructions for performing specific tasks, ensuring consistency and accuracy within an organization. An example is a procedural manual for quality control in manufacturing, outlining inspection processes and reporting criteria. These manuals contribute to businesses by reducing errors, standardizing processes, facilitating employee training, and improving overall process efficiency.

Below is an example outline for a Procedural Manual on Quality Control in Manufacturing:

A real world example of a procedural manual is the Quality Assurance & Quality Control Manual by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Procedural manual as an example of technical writing

3. Assembly Instructions:

Assembly instructions guide users through the process of assembling or installing products. Instructions for assembling flat-pack furniture, for example, include labeled diagrams and step-by-step instructions. These instructions contribute to businesses by enabling users to assemble products correctly, reducing the risk of accidents, enhancing user satisfaction, and minimizing returns.

Here's a sample outline for Assembly Instructions for Flat-Pack Furniture:

A real world example is IKEA's assembly instructions for IKEA kitchen renowned for their clarity and include visual aids, making the assembly process accessible to users worldwide.

assembly guide as an example of technical writing

Tip : Prioritize simplicity in language and visuals to cater to users with varying levels of technical expertise. Additionally, conduct usability testing to identify and address any potential areas of confusion in the assembly instructions.

4. Training Manuals:

Training manuals contain instructional materials for training programs, aiding trainers and trainees in the learning process. A training manual for customer service representatives, for instance, covers communication skills and conflict resolution. In the business context, training manuals facilitate efficient onboarding, standardize training content, ensure consistent skill development, and contribute to employee performance.

Below is an example outline for a Training Manual for Customer Service Representatives:

A real-world example of a training manual is the United Nations Trade Facilitation Implementation Guide: Training Manual .

training manual as an example of a technical writing

Tip : Include real-world examples and case studies relevant to the company's industry to make the training manual more relatable and applicable to the trainees' day-to-day responsibilities. Additionally, encourage ongoing learning by providing resources for continuous improvement beyond the initial training period.

5. Troubleshooting Guides:

Troubleshooting guides provide step-by-step instructions for identifying and resolving issues with products or systems. A troubleshooting guide for software applications, for example, covers common error messages and resolutions. In the business realm, troubleshooting guides empower users to resolve problems independently, reduce support demands, minimize downtime, and enhance overall user experience.

Below is an example outline for a Troubleshooting Guide for Software Applications:

A real-world example of a troubleshooting guide is Microsoft Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset 7: Administrator’s Guide .

troubleshooting guide as an example of technical writing

Tip : Incorporate a troubleshooting flowchart or decision tree to visually guide users through the process. Additionally, regularly update the troubleshooting guide to address new issues and solutions that may arise with software updates or changes.

Examples of Informative Documents

6. white papers:.

White papers serve as authoritative informative documents addressing complex issues, providing in-depth analysis, solutions, and recommendations. A white paper on sustainable business practices, for instance, could explore environmental impact, cost implications, and implementation strategies. In the business context, white papers establish thought leadership, educate stakeholders, attract potential clients, and influence decision-making in emerging fields.

Below is an example outline for a White Paper on Sustainable Business Practices:

A real-world example of a white paper for demonstration is Google's Quantifying the Economic Value of Chromebooks for K–12 Education .

white paper as a technical writing example

Tip : Use a mix of data, charts, and visuals to enhance the readability of the white paper. Additionally, ensure that the language is accessible to a broad audience, balancing technical details with clarity and simplicity.

7. Case Studies:

Case studies offer in-depth examinations of how a product or service addresses real-world problems. For instance, a case study on the implementation of project management software in a large corporation outlines challenges, solutions, and outcomes. In the business realm, case studies build credibility, showcase practical applications, aid decision-making, and serve as potent marketing tools.

Here's an example outline for a Case Study on the Implementation of Project Management Software in a Large Corporation:

A real-world example of a case study as a technical writing example is 'Google Search by Voice: A case study.'

Tip: Use quotes or testimonials from key stakeholders involved in the implementation to add credibility and a human touch to the case study. Additionally, include visual elements such as charts or graphs to illustrate quantitative improvements resulting from the software implementation.

8. Technical Reports:

Technical reports present detailed findings on specific technical topics, often for a specialized audience. A technical report on cybersecurity measures, for example, might analyze vulnerabilities, propose solutions, and offer risk assessments. Businesses benefit from technical reports by facilitating informed decision-making, communicating research findings, supporting collaboration, and advancing knowledge in specialized fields.

Here's an example outline for a Technical Report on Cybersecurity Measures, a typical technical writing example.

A real-world example is ' IBM Enterprise COBOL Performance with IMS: Performance Results and Best Practices .'

technical report as an example of technical writing

Tip : Use a clear and standardized format for presenting technical information, including tables, graphs, and charts to enhance the visualization of data. Additionally, provide references to external sources and industry standards to support the validity of the technical report's findings.

9. Policy Documents:

Policy documents outline organizational rules and guidelines, ensuring consistent decision-making. An example is an IT security policy detailing protocols for data access and network security. For businesses, policy documents establish a framework for compliance, mitigate risks, foster a positive organizational culture, and provide clear guidance for employees.

Below is an example outline of a policy document for IT Security:

A real-world example of a policy document as a technical writing example is the U.S. Department of Defense's Policy Regarding Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Personnel Within the Armed Forces .

policy document as an example of technical writing

Tip : Ensure that the IT Security Policy is regularly reviewed and updated to address evolving cybersecurity threats and technology advancements. Additionally, communicate policy changes effectively to all relevant stakeholders and provide resources for continuous education on IT security best practices.

10. Annual Reports:

Annual reports are comprehensive informative documents summarizing a company's performance, financial results, and achievements over the past year. An example is an annual report for a publicly traded company, including financial statements, CEO messages, and key performance indicators. Annual reports are essential for businesses as they communicate transparency, build investor confidence, satisfy regulatory requirements, and showcase the company's overall health and growth.

Here's an outline for an Annual Report for a Publicly Traded Company:

A real-world example of annual reports is Apple Inc.'s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations .

annual reports as a technical writing example

Tip: Use visual elements such as graphs, charts, and infographics to enhance the presentation of financial and operational data. Ensure that the language is clear and accessible to a diverse audience, including both shareholders and stakeholders with varying levels of financial expertise.

11. Company Reports:

Company reports encompass various informative documents providing detailed insights into specific aspects of a business, such as financial reports, sustainability reports, or progress reports. For instance, a sustainability report details a company's environmental and social initiatives. Company reports contribute to businesses by fostering transparency, meeting regulatory obligations, building trust with stakeholders, and showcasing commitment to social responsibility.

A real-world example of annual reports is Apple Inc.'s Corporate Social Responsibility Annual Report of Apple India Private Limited (the “Company”) FY 2018-19 .

company report as a technical writing example

Examples of Business-Oriented Documents

12. request for proposal (rfp):.

RFP documents outline project requirements for vendor submissions. An RFP for website development, for instance, specifies project scope, timelines, and evaluation criteria. RFPs contribute to businesses by ensuring a clear understanding of project expectations, facilitating vendor selection, promoting fair competition, and streamlining the proposal evaluation process.

Below is an example of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Website Development:

A real-world example of RFP as a typical technical writing example is the New York Building Congress' Website Design and Development Request for Proposal .

Tip : Clearly communicate the goals and expectations of the project in the RFP document to ensure that vendors provide relevant and targeted proposals. Additionally, establish a responsive communication channel to address vendor queries promptly, promoting a fair and competitive proposal submission process.

13. Feasibility Studies:

Feasibility studies assess the practicality of proposed projects. A feasibility study for renewable energy solutions, for example, analyzes costs, benefits, and potential challenges. In the business context, feasibility studies provide valuable insights, support decision-making, attract investments, and mitigate risks associated with new initiatives.

The table below provides a comprehensive outline of a Feasibility Study on Renewable Energy Solutions to demonstrate feasibility studies as technical writing examples:

A real-world example of a feasibility study is 'Feasibility Study of Economics and Performance of Solar Photovoltaics at the Sky Park Landfill Site in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.'

feasibility study as an example of technical writing

Tip : Collaborate with experts in renewable energy technologies, environmental sciences, and finance to ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment. Regularly update the feasibility study to account for changes in technology, market conditions, and regulatory requirements that may impact project feasibility.

14. Specifications:

Specifications outline technical requirements for products or systems. Technical specifications for a new car model, for instance, detail features, performance metrics, and safety standards. In businesses, specifications provide clarity, guide product development, facilitate communication between teams, and ensure products meet predefined standards.

Below is an example outline for Technical Specifications for a New Car Model:

A real-world example of a specfications document as a technical writing example is 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Technical Specifications .

specifications document as an example of technical writing

Tip : Use clear and standardized terminology throughout the specifications document to avoid ambiguity. Collaborate closely with design, engineering, and marketing teams to ensure alignment between technical requirements and customer expectations. Regularly update the specifications as the product evolves through the development process.

15. Product Descriptions:

Product descriptions provide detailed information about a product's features and benefits. A product description for a smartphone, for example, highlights specifications, functionalities, and unique selling points. In the business context, compelling product descriptions enhance marketing efforts, inform customers, influence purchasing decisions, and contribute to overall brand perception.

Below is an example of a product description outline for an iPhone:

A real-world example of a product description as an example of technical writing is Apple's iPhone 14 Pro Product Environmental Report , which describes how the product complies with environmental sustainability principles while discussing various components of the product.

Tip: Use language that resonates with the target audience, focusing on benefits and experiences rather than just technical specifications. Incorporate compelling visuals, such as high-quality images and videos, to enhance the product description and engage potential customers visually.

16. Service Level Agreements (SLAs):

SLAs define the expectations and obligations between a service provider and a customer. An example is an SLA for a cloud computing service, specifying uptime guarantees, response times, and support availability. SLAs are critical for businesses as they set clear expectations, establish accountability, ensure service quality, and provide a basis for dispute resolution in service-oriented industries.

Here's an outline for a Service Level Agreement (SLA) for Cloud Computing Services:

A real-world example of a SLA as a technical writing example is Aruba Cloud Computing Service's Service Level Agreement .

SLA Example as a Technical Writing Example

Tip: Ensure that SLAs are regularly reviewed and updated to align with changes in technology, service offerings, and industry best practices. Clearly communicate any changes to customers and provide ample notice for adjustments or modifications to the agreement. Regularly monitor and report on service levels to maintain transparency and build trust with customers.

17. Press Releases:

Press releases are concise business-oriented documents announcing newsworthy events or developments within a company. An example is a press release for a product launch, detailing features, availability, and the intended impact. Press releases contribute to businesses by generating media coverage, attracting public attention, enhancing brand visibility, and creating positive narratives around key company milestones.

Below is an outline for a Press Release for a Product Launch:

A real-world example of a press release as an example of technical writing is Freelancer.com's Escrow.com’s biggest announcement in 18 years–public beta of Escrow API opens .

Tip: Keep the press release concise and focused, aiming to convey the most important information in a clear and engaging manner. Use language that aligns with the company's brand voice and values. Leverage multimedia elements to enhance visual appeal and create shareable content for media outlets and social platforms.

Examples of Specialized Formats

18. api documentation:.

API documentation is a specialized form of technical writing that outlines the functionality, usage, and integration details of an Application Programming Interface (API). An example is documentation for a payment gateway API, detailing endpoints, authentication methods, request/response formats, and error handling. In the business context, comprehensive API documentation is crucial for developers to integrate services seamlessly, fostering interoperability and expanding the ecosystem around a product or platform.

Below is an outline for API Documentation for a Payment Gateway API:

In the real-world scenario, Stripe's API documentation serves as a comprehensive technical writing example, covering various payment-related functionalities, clear examples, and robust documentation structure.

API Documentation as a technical writing example

Tip: Incorporate interactive elements such as live API explorers or code playgrounds in the documentation to allow developers to test API calls directly within the documentation, enhancing the learning and integration experience. Regularly update the documentation to reflect changes in the API, address user feedback, and provide accurate and up-to-date information for developers.

19. Business Plans:

Business plans are strategic business-oriented documents outlining an organization's goals, objectives, and strategies for achieving success. An example is a business plan for a startup, covering market analysis, financial projections, and operational plans. Business plans are vital for businesses as they provide a roadmap for growth, attract investors, guide decision-making, and serve as a reference for stakeholders to align efforts towards common objectives.

Here's an example outline for a Business Plan for a Startup:

A real-world example is the business plan for Airbnb , which originally started as a platform for renting air mattresses, showcases how a detailed plan can evolve into a successful and innovative business.

business plan as an example of technical writing

Tip: Regularly revisit and update the business plan to reflect changes in the market, business environment, or organizational goals. Keep the language clear and concise, ensuring that the plan is easily understandable by various stakeholders, including investors, partners, and team members.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the journey through various examples of technical writing has illuminated the diverse landscape where precision and eloquence converge, and complex ideas find clear expression. As we explored the realm of technical writing examples, each instance showcased the indispensable role of this discipline in shaping the narrative of modern business communication.

From the user-centric guidance of instructional documents to the analytical depth of informative documents, and from the strategic focus of business-oriented documents to the specialized nature of formats like API documentation and business plans, technical writing proves its adaptability across a spectrum of contexts and audiences. The curated list of examples reflects the nuanced characteristics of each type, highlighting the purpose-driven approach, distinct target audiences, and specialized content that define technical writing in various domains.

In essence, technical writing serves as the essential bridge between intricate subject matter and end-users, translating complexity into clarity. Whether guiding users through tasks, providing in-depth insights, addressing business stakeholders, or catering to specialized audiences, the shared commitment to clarity, precision, and usability unites these examples under the umbrella of technical writing.

This exploration reaffirms the transformative power of words in the technological landscape, where technical writing stands as a cornerstone in effective communication. As we navigate the ever-evolving business landscape, the art of conveying information effectively and efficiently, with a focus on clarity, remains paramount, making technical writing a cornerstone in the realm of modern communication.

What are the differences between a white paper and an ebook?
White Paper Best Practices: Insights for Content Marketers
Who can write a white paper?
Why is a white paper called a white paper?
Where to Publish a White Paper

5 Strong Technical Writing Examples (and What They Do Well)

1. end-user manual, 2. api documentation, 3. annual report.

4. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

5. White Paper

Use these technical writing examples to improve your writing..

Technical writing is a type of writing that involves describing complex topics using language that is clear and concise.

Technical writers are often responsible for creating technical documentation, such as manuals, guides, and tutorials, for software programs, websites, and other technologies.

1. End-User Manual \n 2. API Documentation \n 3. Annual Report s\n4. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) \n 5. White Paper s\n6. Service Level Agreements (SLA)"}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}">Technical Writing Examples Include: 1. End-User Manual 2. API Documentation 3. Annual Reports 4. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) 5. White Papers 6. Service Level Agreements (SLA)

This writing style requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to communicate effectively. The best way to improve your technical writing skills is to practice. You can use these five technical writing examples to help you do just that.

Also called user guides, instruction manuals, and end-user documentation, an end-user manual is content that guides someone on how to use a product or service. These documents are written with the assumption that the user has no technical knowledge or doesn't understand the technical terms of the topic.

Adobe created an end-user manual or guide for newbies learning InDesign's features. The company provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the software to create beautiful graphic designs and elegant layouts.

strong-technical-writing-example-adobe-indesign-screenshot

For example, users could begin clicking on sections to get an entire overview of InDesign. Or maybe they just want to create an ebook page. They can click on the corresponding section . Adobe includes clear instructions and images for each topic.

Become a technical writer today and advance your career in our course

Our Technical Report Writing course includes instructor feedback and guidance at key points while you write an actual work document. Receive one-on-one coaching to review your final document.

API documentation is a reference manual on how to effectively use and integrate the application programming interface (API). It's written for technical users who want to move forward in their software development.

Stripe, the online payment processing company, provides comprehensive documentation on its API -- from Authentication to Request IDs.

strong-technical-writing-example-stripe-screenshot

An annual report is a comprehensive technical document that a company presents to its shareholders to describe its activities from the previous year.

The formal document typically includes a report from the company's Chairperson, CEO, corporate info, mission statement, etc.

Below is an example of this technical document from the Canadian Hearing Services (CHS). Presented for 2020-2021, the report includes an overview of CHS, its business activities, and in-depth financial information.

strong-technical-writing-example-annual-report-screenshot

Related: Is Business Writing the Same as Technical Writing?

4. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

A standard operating procedure or SOP is a set of instructions on what steps to follow when performing some operational task.

These steps ensure that laws, industry regulations, or a company's quality standards are met. SOPs are typically required in industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, and restaurants.

The following SOP is for the Central Fire Protection District of Santa Cruz Counties' personal operating vehicles. It outlines the scope, purpose, definitions, etc., of using these vehicles to enforce safety laws and the safety of the drivers.

strong-technical-writing-example-SOP-example

A white paper is common in the technical world. It outlines a specific problem and provides solutions and solution benefits. It is a larger writing piece (typically 2,500 words) and deals with complex topics. It's also a widely-used marketing tool.

For example, Redpoint Global created a white paper to explain the problem of brands connecting with customers through their preferred touchpoints. The white paper then offers a solution for using a customer data platform.

Notice what these technical writing samples have in common: they are concise, clearly organized, and incorporate visuals as needed.

Whether you're writing end-user documentation, technical reports, or another type of company document, improve your technical content by following what these sample documents do well.

Let your target audience and purpose guide your technical document.
Follow a formal writing process to avoid getting stuck while drafting.
Add clear visuals and graphics that complement your written work and support reader understanding.
Edit, edit, edit. Ensure that your technical writing assignment is accurate, clear, and keeps the needs of your audience in mind.

Want to advance your technical writing career? We recommend taking a course to continually improve and hone your technical communication skills and share your knowledge as a subject matter expert. Check out our technical course options—with individualized instructor feedback—here.

5 technical writing skills teams need to hone, is business writing the same as technical writing, how to write effective technical documentation, get notified of new articles.

Business Writing Skills (54)
Business Grammar (52)
Technical Writing (32)
Business Writing Resources (26)
Business Email Writing (17)
Business Writing Training (12)
Business Proposals (10)
Business Report Writing (7)
Business Proofreading (4)
Sales Writing (3)
Executive Summary Writing (2)
Customer Support Writing (1)
Bailey Lang (1)
Elisabeth O'Quinn (14)
Grace Cuddy (6)
Haley Larsen (4)
Kara Latz (10)
Katie Almeida Spencer (31)
Malcolm Stiefel (1)
Mary Cullen (134)
Samantha Taylor (2)
Terrance Collins (1)
Tom DuPuis (10)

10 Best Technical Writing Examples & Samples

Users searching for complicated technical topics find it hard to understand, emphasizing the need for clear and helpful examples of technical writing. However, with the assistance of these writing examples, you can understand the complex applications of technical products. In this article, we’ll discuss the demanding technical writing examples and the best tool to modernize the technical writing process.

What is Technical Writing?

Technical writing is a unique way of explaining tricky stuff in a clear and short way. It’s all about breaking down complex ideas, processes, or steps in different technical areas for a group of interested people. Besides, the main goal is to help them understand and use information about a product, system, or process.

Meanwhile, examples of technical writing in everyday life encompass user manuals for electronics, software guides, scientific papers, and engineering reports. In technical writing, the language is precise, avoiding confusing words or unclear phrases. Additionally, visual aids like pictures or charts are often used to make things easier to understand. In addition, technical writing helps share knowledge and ensure we use new technology best in many different areas.

Top 10 Examples of Technical Writing

Technical writing covers many areas that explain complicated topics clearly for specific audiences. It’s a key way we share information about products or systems. Thus, in this section, we will check out 10 examples of technical writing in different areas.

1. User Manuals

User manuals accompany products like electronics, which provide a comprehensive guide for users, particularly beginners. In contrast, these manuals traditionally featured text and diagrams for user understanding. However, modern ones include photos, disclaimers, flow charts, warranty information, and troubleshooting guides. However, technical writers collaborate with engineers to ensure thorough coverage of user issues through firsthand experience.

The creation, publication, and maintenance of user manual guides are simplified through the use of documentation tools designed for them. Evidently, Docuo by Spreading creates, maintains, and publishes technical product documentation without any need for code.

2. Standard Operating Procedures

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) promote organizational efficiency to streamline tasks from payroll processing to manufacturing. These technical writing examples foster uniformity and ensure everyone collaborates seamlessly for consistent quality. Hence, proper use of SOPs minimizes irregularities, favoritism, and errors among employees.

Additionally, SOPs enable employees to seamlessly assume responsibilities in the absence of a colleague. If you want to develop effective SOPs, it requires a thorough understanding of organizational processes.

3. Press Release

Press releases are formal technical writing examples as announcements from organizations to share news and make significant declarations. These documents set a model for subsequent releases through press conferences, news releases, or social media. Moreover, these structured documents highlight the information’s importance to the public from key stakeholders.

Furthermore, press releases may include an executive summary or follow a universal format, typically following a specific writing process. Besides, for businesses, the integration of press releases into their technical writing strategy can significantly enhance the influence and distribution of crucial information.

4. Business Plans

A business plan serves as an example of technical writing and is a detailed document that helps to outline a company’s objectives and strategies. It covers financial, operational, and marketing aspects that are essential for both startups and established companies. In addition to that, businesses can secure investment and get aid in obtaining loans with well-planned strategic goals.

The components of an effective business plan include an executive summary, market analysis, product/service details, and financial planning. Moreover, these technical documents secure both innovations and technological assets and frequently integrate the recording of intellectual property.

5. Company Documents

Business documents stand as representations of individuals, departments, and the entire organization. They fulfill business needs for both those within the company and external stakeholders. However, these include various forms, such as accounting papers, reports, proposals, letters, meeting summaries, customer service records, and operational documents.

You can craft effective company documents by starting with a well-organized outline, avoiding unnecessary details, and using active verbs for engagement. Plus, organizations can establish and maintain quality standards to support continuous improvement initiatives.

6. Annual Reports

An annual report is one of the technical writing examples that provides a summary of a business’s achievements and future vision. It is distributed annually to shareholders for comprehensive insight into the business’s performance. Moreover, these reports serve as a marketing tool to impress investors and attract new stakeholders.

A standard report for public companies includes the CEO’s letter, financial data, new product plans, and research and development. Furthermore, they vary in length from 20 to 200 pages and should be reader-friendly, with essential components. These key aspects include a cover page, table of contents, mission statement, CSR initiatives, and graphics.

7. API Documentation

API documentation acts as a crucial resource for developers, aiding them in interacting with a product’s code to implement an API efficiently. This documentation includes clear instructions and tutorials designed to simplify the integration process with various APIs, including web APIs and software APIs. Additionally, it ensures that users can understand, utilize, and integrate the API effectively with comprehensive guidance.

This technical writing example serves as a valuable tool to enhance the accessibility of a product’s codebase and foster a smoother collaboration between developers and the API. It offers direction on best practices for authentication, authorization, and security to help developers secure interaction with API.

8. Software Installation Guides

Effective software documentation, like installation guides, is essential for guiding users through the process of implementing and installing computer software. A comprehensive installation guide should feature detailed workflows, video tutorials, FAQs, and troubleshooting instructions. In many cases, automation by programmers streamlines the installation, with technical writers contributing alert boxes and ReadMe files.

In this way, well-crafted software installation documentation facilitates a smoother user experience in navigating the intricacies of software implementation. Moreover, it boosts user confidence to make them more comfortable and capable of using software.

9. Request for Proposals

A Request for Proposal, or RFP, is a crucial business document that announces a project and invites bids from eligible contractors. The language of this technical writing example employed in the document is persuasive, and the effectiveness of an RFP can significantly impact the success of the deal. A perfect RFP should distinctly outline project goals, challenges, the scope of work, and the criteria for evaluation.

Moreover, if an RFP is written poorly, it undermines risks to the success of the procurement process and makes it imperative to convey project details for optimal results. In brief, organizations can enhance transparency in the recruitment process with fairness and accountability in vendor selection.

10. Bid Documentation

Bid documentation creates technical materials outlining the components of a construction project, which is essential for soliciting proposals. This example of technical writing includes estimates, specifications, and project plans, providing a comprehensive overview of the undertaking. As a result, it has a crucial role in the procurement process to provide necessary details for potential bidders to submit competitive offers.

Essentially, the bid documentation acts as a comprehensive guide, ensuring that those interested in the project fully grasp its complexities. In this situation, these documents perform the role of a formal agreement between organizations and bidders to offer legal protection by defining terms and conditions.

Streamline Your Technical Writing with Docuo

In technical writing, success centers on being effective and clear in conveying complex topics to intended audiences. For this purpose, Docuo powered by Spreading has streamlined various aspects of technical writing. Therefore, the AI-integrated tool writes technical content and enables users to publish it seamlessly in a customer-facing portal without any code.

Moreover, it assists you with writing and improving your existing document by rectifying errors in grammar and spelling. Users can generate different technical writing samples such as user manuals, software installation guides, and many more with the help of this efficient tool.

Privacy policy
Terms of use
Cookie notice

AI in action
AI in the enterprise
Humans of AI

Words at work

Inside Writer
Content strategy
Inspiration

– 7 min read

The best-in-class technical writing style guide examples (and why they work)

Devon Delfino

User guides. Proposals. Reports. Technical documentation. Case studies. A technical writer has to wear many hats to get the job done.

At a basic level, technical writing involves communicating complex information so readers can use a product — even if they aren’t an expert. This approach can be applied across many sectors, like high-tech manufacturing, biotech, engineering, finance, and computer technology.

Making all of that complex information cohesive would be almost impossible if it weren’t for two things: assignment templates and the style guide . Here’s what you should know about style guides when it comes to technical writers:

What is a style guide in technical writing?

In general, the point of a style guide is to provide consistency, whether you’re writing an article or a social media post. It typically covers the basics, like:

Punctuation (guidance on how to use things like hyphens, parenthesis, semicolons, and the Oxford comma)

Grammar (rules for things like capitalization, parts of speech like conjunctions, , and prepositions)

For technical writers, a style guide can also cover things like product description guidelines, report structuring, linking best-practices, and when to use abbreviations or acronyms. This provides a solid foundation for templated content. So it’s especially useful for technical writers who may be working on the same type of assignment regularly.

For those interested in diving further into the topic of editorial style guidelines, resources like The Elements of Style , or a stylebook like AP Style or the Chicago Manual of Style , can provide valuable insight. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with those stylebooks because many style guides use them as a baseline, offering guidance where they diverge from the rules.

What are the five types of technical writing?

In addition to traditional technical writing (content produced with a technical audience in mind, like appliance repair manuals and programmer guides), there are five umbrellas assignments tend to fall under:

Technological marketing content: Technical writing that’s tied to advertising, product promotion, and marketing.

End-user documentation: Technical writing presented as how-to information for electronics and other consumer products.

Field service support: Technical writing intended to aid in technical work and often requires the writer to develop and analyze procedures and documentation for various types of work (for example, equipment and software installation, maintenance, and administration.)

Developmental support: This kind of technical writing requires you to analyze information and work with experts on the topic to create functional and technical specification documents or systems analysis documents.

Organizational support: Here, technical writers would identify process and project objectives and limitations (think: stakeholders and critical success factors) and help define deliverables.

Document style guide examples for technical writers

Best technical style guide for navigation: google developer style guide.

As any technical writer knows, when you have a lot of information to present, organization is key. The Google Developer style guide solves the organization problem by keeping the reader in mind throughout. It begins with an introduction section that covers the basics — goals of the guide and how to use it — and then breaks things down into a more digestible format in the Highlights section. That covers other high-level topics, like:

Tone and content (including accessibility)

Language and grammar (like using active voice vs. passive voice)

Formatting, punctuation, and organization

Those sections have linked key takeaways, so the reader can get the gist of things and access more in-depth information with a single click. That’s vital when you have a guide (and sidebar) as lengthy as Google’s developer guide.

The sidebar also divides things up in a way that is both intuitive and easy to read, with bolded headers. And the search function at the top of the screen makes it even easier for readers to find what they need. Together, these factors make the guide less intimidating, even if you’re a first-time visitor. That’s key for a growing company.

Best example-based technical style guide: Microsoft’s style guide

Guidelines are good. Concrete examples are better. And the Microsoft writing style guide is packed with useful examples, including both what works and what doesn’t for its rules.

For instance, in the Bias-free communication section, there are tables labeled with headers like Use this and Not this . This direct comparison makes it easy for a reader to grasp the information at a glance. And the table itself also provides a break from the more traditional text format, adding another layer of digestibility.

Not every page of this style guide goes into this level of depth (and it isn’t always necessary to do so). But it makes a difference when they do because example-based pages are allocated to more complex sections, like pages that fall under the Grammar umbrella. This, and peppering in context like exceptions to rules, gives a complete picture of what’s expected while anticipating reader questions.

Best one-page technical style guide: IBM’s style guide

While the other style guides listed here rely on housing information on separate pages, the IBM style guide keeps everything on one page. In the wrong hands, that could be a recipe for reader confusion and overwhelm. But this guide avoids the potential pitfalls of this structure through two key tools:

Visual organization (like headers, bolded takeaways, bullet points, charts and color-coding)

Jumplinks (both in-line and within the table of contents in the sidebar)

Again, this style guide keeps the reader in mind, offering information in a way that works for those who are reading the content start to finish (like a new employee would), as well as for those who are skimming for the information they need and may be under a deadline. So instead of presenting as a wall of text, it’s broken down into the most crucial bits of information.

And beyond that, the information is written using the writing style and guidelines it puts forth. For example, the guide provides an educational example for writing conversationally: “And another thing. You can start sentences with “And” or “But.”” This meets that conversational standard, but it’s also active and to the point. Bottom line: Leading by example is one of the best ways to get readers to understand, and use, your guide.

Best streamlined technical style guide: Apple’s style guide

A good style guide provides enough information to make readers understand what’s needed without bogging them down in a sea of excess. In the case of the Apple style guide , that means slimming down the content as well as the menu.

Unlike the other guides on this list, Apple hides the more in-depth information in drop-downs within the menu, creating a more simplistic view of the information. When you click into the sections, most of those also offer an Overview page which can answer more common questions, like basics of international style or writing units of measure. Then subsequent pages go deeper, addressing specifics, like including ISO standard context and prefixes for units of measure.

Another key to this guide’s success is the strategic placement of the updates page, located under the About the guide section. That makes it easier for returning visitors to stay updated about changes in brand style. That’s vital for any business, but especially if you’re building a style guide from scratch, when larger changes are more likely. Creating a style guide is a big undertaking, though. And while you can, and should, take inspiration from the above examples, it will still require a significant amount of work to make a guide that meets your company’s needs. For that, Writer’s style guide tool can help.

--> “A wide screen just makes a bad film twice as bad.” -->

May Habib CEO, Writer.com

Here’s what else you should know about Ascending.

More resources

– 6 min read

Taking a ‘quality over quick’ approach to customer support in the pandemic

Amy Cuevas Schroeder

– 5 min read

A grammar guide to contractions

Jessica Malnik

– 15 min read

A detailed guide to citing sources in MLA and APA

What Are The Differences Between Technical Writing And Creative Writing

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on Published: June 7, 2023 - Last updated: July 31, 2023

Categories Writing

You’ve always had a passion for writing, but now you’re faced with choosing between two distinct paths: technical writing or creative writing. As an aspiring writer, it’s essential to understand the differences between these two forms of written communication, as each has its nuances and unique requirements that can make all the difference in which path leads to your career success.

In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between technical and creative writing – from their purpose and goals to target audience and essential skill sets – so you can confidently decide which path is right for you.

By understanding these distinctions, you’ll be better equipped to unleash your creativity while maintaining clarity and precision in your work. It’s time to break free from confusion and let your talent shine within the realm that truly resonates with you.

Key Takeaways

Technical writing focuses on explaining complex concepts accurately, while creative writing aims for audience engagement through storytelling.
Technical writing creates documentation such as user manuals, tutorials, FAQs, and white papers, while creative writing allows more freedom in style and content.
Technical writing adopts a neutral, objective voice, uses precise terminology, avoids colloquial language, and follows a specific structure for clear communication of complex information. In contrast, creative writing often employs a unique voice that reflects the author’s or characters’ personality within the story and has more latitude regarding word choice, including slang or poetic expressions.
Technical writing requires thorough research and fact-checking, ensures document consistency, and prioritizes clarity and accuracy. In contrast, creative writing adds depth to characters and stories through research, lends credibility to the fictional world through fact-checking, and incorporates emotional appeal to keep readers hooked.

Defining Technical Writing

You’ll find that technical writing focuses on clearly explaining complex concepts, processes, or procedures precisely and accurately. This type of writing often involves breaking down technical jargon into simpler terms to make the information accessible to a broader audience.

Technical writers create documentation types such as user manuals, tutorials, FAQs, and white papers to ensure that users can understand how products or systems work. Their main goal is to inform and engage readers who might feel overwhelmed by intricate details.

To satisfy your subconscious desire for freedom while still being concise and clear, technical writing aims at telling engaging stories in an easy-to-grasp language. Using active voice and contractions like ‘it’s’ instead of ‘it is,’ the text becomes more approachable without sacrificing accuracy.

The key here is finding the right balance between providing correct information and keeping the reader captivated throughout the piece. Remember that it’s essential to cater your writing style according to your audience’s needs so they can efficiently grasp new concepts or learn about new tools without feeling bogged down by overly complicated wording or explanations.

Defining Creative Writing

Creative writing is just a breeze compared to technical writing – you let your imagination run wild and create worlds filled with fascinating characters and stories!

With creative inspiration at your fingertips, you can explore the depths of your imagination and express emotions that resonate with readers. The freedom in creative writing allows you to break away from the confines of structured formats and rigid guidelines, allowing you to paint vibrant pictures using words as your brush.

However, don’t be fooled into thinking that creative writing doesn’t require discipline or skill. Developing a unique voice and style that captivates an audience’s subconscious desire for freedom takes practice and dedication.

Imagination exploration may come naturally to some, but honing it into a well-crafted piece of literature is an art form. Whether you’re penning poetry or spinning tales of intrigue, remember that clarity and engagement are crucial in making your work truly memorable.

Purpose and Goals

Understanding the purpose and goals of creative writing is essential, as this helps you craft captivating stories that truly resonate with readers.

The primary aim of creative writing is audience engagement through storytelling, which allows readers to lose themselves in the world of your creation. This type of writing encourages imaginatively expressing ideas, emotions, and experiences while emphasizing content focus.

By honing your skills as a creative writer, you’ll be able to effectively transport your audience into new worlds and evoke powerful emotions within them.

To achieve this level of engagement, it’s crucial for you as a writer to tap into your subconscious desire for freedom and exploration. Creative writing provides an outlet for both the author and reader to break free from the confines of everyday life and experience something entirely different.

By carefully choosing your words, building vivid imagery, and creating dynamic characters, you will captivate and inspire those who read your work.

Ultimately, the purpose and goals of creative writing are rooted in connecting with readers on a deep emotional level while providing an escape from reality that fosters creativity within everyone who engages with it.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial in crafting a story that resonates with them and evokes an emotional connection. In technical writing, your primary focus is to inform and educate the reader about a specific subject or topic.

This means you’ll need to present accurate information clearly and concisely, making it easy for the reader to understand complex concepts. Audience engagement is essential here, ensuring they can grasp the material without feeling overwhelmed or confused.

On the other hand, creative writing aims to entertain and captivate its audience by creating vivid mental images and thought-provoking narratives. Content personalization plays a significant role in this process, as tailoring your style and tone to your target audience’s preferences will help foster their subconscious desire for freedom through immersive storytelling experiences.

By understanding who you’re writing for and what they want from your work, you’ll be better equipped to create engaging content that speaks directly to their hearts, minds, and imaginations.

Writing Style and Tone

Mastering the appropriate writing style and tone is key to effectively connecting with your audience, whether you’re aiming to inform or entertain them. In technical writing, the focus is on accuracy and clarity, while creative writing allows more freedom in style and content.

Understanding the differences between these two types of writing will help you tailor your approach to best suit your audience’s needs.

Writing Voice: Technical writing typically adopts a neutral, objective voice conveying information without personal bias or opinion. On the other hand, creative writing often employs a unique voice that reflects the author’s or characters’ personality within the story.
Tone Variations: The tone in technical writing remains consistent throughout – informative and straightforward – whereas creative writing may employ various tones such as humorous, suspenseful, or emotional to engage readers and evoke different feelings.
Structure and Organization: Technical documents follow a specific structure for clear communication of complex information; creative pieces can have more flexible organization depending on artistic intent.
Language Choice: Technical writers use precise terminology and avoid colloquial language; creative writers have more latitude regarding word choice, including slang or poetic expressions.

By being aware of these distinctions in style and tone between technical and creative writing, you’ll be better equipped to craft engaging content that appeals to your audience’s subconscious desire for freedom while ensuring accurate information presentation.

Remember that mastering this balance is an ongoing process and worth pursuing as it improves your skills as a writer and enhances your ability to connect with readers from various backgrounds.

Structure and Format

Navigating the world of structure and format can be intriguing and challenging, as it’ll help you craft pieces that captivate your audience while maintaining a clear message. In technical writing, structure and format are crucial for presenting information in an organized, easy-to-understand manner.

This often involves using headings, subheadings, bullet points, numbered lists, tables, and charts to break down complex concepts into digestible chunks.

On the other hand, creative writing allows for more structural adaptability and format variations to suit the story or idea being conveyed.

As you explore different writing projects, remember that your choice of structure and format should always serve your intended purpose.

Whether creating a detailed user manual or penning a captivating short story, remember that your audience’s subconscious desire for freedom can be met through engaging storytelling combined with accurate information presentation.

By striking the right balance between these elements, you’ll create works that resonate with readers while effectively conveying your message.

Use of Language

As you delve into written expression, you’ll quickly find that how you wield your words can either enchant or inform your audience, depending on your goal.

In creative writing, language evolution and cultural influences significantly shape a story’s tone, style, and atmosphere. Writers often use rich vocabulary and diverse sentence structures to create vivid images and evoke emotions in their readers.

They may experiment with literary devices like similes, metaphors, and symbolism to convey deeper meanings beneath the surface of their narrative.

On the other hand, technical writing prioritizes clarity and accuracy above all else. The focus is on concisely presenting information while still maintaining an engaging storytelling approach. This means using straightforward language with minimal jargon or ambiguity – something that can be easily understood by a wide range of audiences regardless of their background knowledge or expertise.

While there might not be as much room for artistic flair as in creative writing, effective technical writers still need to consider factors such as audience needs and cultural influences when crafting content that speaks to their subconscious desire for freedom – freedom from confusion or misunderstanding when trying to grasp complex concepts or procedures.

Research and Fact-Checking

In your pursuit of crafting compelling content, thorough research and meticulous fact-checking become indispensable tools to ensure credibility and accuracy in both creative and technical writing. While these two forms of writing might differ in their objectives, structure, and style, the importance of research techniques and fact-checking methods cannot be overstated.

In creative writing, research helps you create well-developed characters, vivid settings, and engaging stories that resonate with readers. Employing proper fact-checking methods allows you to maintain a certain level of authenticity in the world you have created.

For instance, if your novel is set during a specific period or revolves around a particular topic or profession, it’s crucial for you as an author to have a good grasp of the historical context or relevant details.

On the other hand, technical writing demands precision and consistency; thus, using sound research techniques provides accurate information that your target audience can rely on.

Whether creating user manuals for software or composing scientific articles for publications, ensuring that each piece of information is correct builds trust with your readership while fostering professionalism within your work.

Imagery and Descriptive Language

You’ll find that mastering the art of imagery and descriptive language can truly elevate your writing, immersing readers in vivid scenes and stirring emotions with just a few carefully chosen words.

Visual storytelling is essential for both technical and creative writers, but it plays a more prominent role in the latter.

In creative writing, you can explore sensory appeal, using rich descriptions to evoke feelings, sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and tactile sensations that transport your audience into the world you’ve created.

In technical writing, imagery might be used sparingly to clarify complex concepts or make information more relatable; however, it’s important not to get carried away with descriptive language.

Instead of focusing on sensory appeal to engage your reader emotionally or transport them somewhere else mentally (which is often desirable in creative writing), concentrate on presenting information clearly and concisely.

This way, you’ll focus on helping your audience understand the material at hand while providing enough detail to keep them engaged and interested in what they’re learning.

Emotional Appeal

Emotional appeal plays a significant role in keeping your readers hooked, whether it’s through creative or technical writing. By tapping into the emotional impact of your content, you can create a powerful reader connection that keeps them engaged and invested in your work.

In creative writing, this often means creating relatable characters and evoking emotions through vivid imagery and storytelling. Meanwhile, an emotional appeal can be achieved in technical writing by presenting information that resonates with the reader’s experiences and needs.

When you focus on appealing to your audience’s subconscious desire for freedom, you ignite their curiosity and encourage them to explore new ideas.

This could involve crafting stories that inspire readers to question societal norms or break free from restrictive patterns in creative writing.

For technical writers, this might mean making complex concepts more accessible so that readers feel empowered to apply newfound knowledge in their personal or professional lives.

By incorporating emotional appeal into both forms of writing, you can foster deeper connections with your readers and leave a lasting impact on their hearts and minds.

Real-life Applications

By harnessing the power of emotional appeal, you’ll find that both your creative and technical writing endeavors can soar to new heights, opening doors in your readers’ minds like a master key unlocking hidden chambers.

Real-life applications of these two distinct writing styles are abundant, with practical implementation serving as an essential component for success in various fields.

Creative Writing:

Can foster interdisciplinary collaboration by uniting professionals from different backgrounds to solve complex problems
Helps convey abstract concepts through engaging storytelling, sparking curiosity, and inspiring innovation

Technical Writing:

Facilitates clear communication between team members in diverse industries, ensuring accurate information presentation
Streamlines processes and procedures by providing concise instructions, contributing to overall efficiency

Incorporating emotional appeal into your work will captivate your audience and grant them a subconscious desire for freedom – freedom to explore ideas beyond their current understanding or perspective.

Whether you’re weaving intricate tales filled with vivid imagery or breaking down complex technical jargon into digestible pieces, the ability to resonate emotionally with your reader is a vital tool that can greatly impact the effectiveness of your message.

As a writer who understands this power, you’ll be poised to influence change across many domains through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking.

Employment Opportunities

Mastering the art of emotional appeal in creative and technical writing can unlock many employment opportunities. It allows you to shape worlds with your words and guide readers on an unforgettable journey through innovative ideas.

As job market trends evolve, there is an increasing demand for skilled writers. Employers seek those who can engage audiences with compelling storytelling while presenting accurate and concise information.

From drafting engaging blog posts, creating captivating stories, or developing comprehensive technical documents, your expertise in these two distinct writing styles will make you highly sought by employers.

In addition to traditional full-time positions, numerous freelancing options offer the freedom and flexibility many crave. With platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com readily available, offering your writing services globally has never been easier and connecting with potential clients from diverse industries.

By honing your creative and technical writing skills, you’ll be able to tap into this ever-expanding market. You can embark on a fulfilling career path that allows you financial stability and the opportunity to quench your subconscious desire for freedom.

Educational Requirements

Regarding educational requirements, you’ll find a wide range of options for pursuing a career in creative and technical writing.

Industry demands are constantly evolving, so staying updated with the latest trends and advancements in your chosen field is essential.

Some common educational paths for these careers include:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees in English, journalism, communications, or related fields .
Specialized certification programs focused on specific areas, such as technical communication or copywriting.
Workshops, conferences, and online courses to enhance your skills and knowledge .

Although formal education can help you establish a strong foundation in writing principles and techniques, hands-on experience is just as valuable. You can build an impressive portfolio by participating in internships or freelance projects, demonstrating your ability to adapt to various styles and formats.

In addition, networking with other professionals can open doors for job opportunities while providing insights into their experiences navigating the world of creative and technical writing.

Essential Skill Sets

It’s crucial to hone various skills to excel as a creative or technical writer, as both fields require unique abilities and aptitudes. Skill development is an ongoing process that involves practicing techniques, learning new methods, and staying updated with industry trends.

For a creative writer, essential skills include developing compelling storylines, crafting engaging characters, maintaining consistency in style and tone, and effectively using literary devices.

In contrast, a technical writer must be adept at breaking down complex information into easy-to-understand language, designing user-friendly documentation formats, incorporating visuals when necessary, and ensuring accuracy in every detail.

Collaboration importance cannot be stressed enough for both types of writers. Creative writers often work closely with editors who provide feedback on their work while coordinating with other professionals like designers and marketers during the publishing process.

This requires strong communication skills and the ability to adapt one’s vision based on input from others.

Similarly, technical writers collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs), engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure that their content accurately reflects the intended message while remaining accessible to the target audience.

Embrace your subconscious desire for freedom by honing these diverse skill sets; doing so will allow you to flourish in either realm of writing while maintaining versatility within your career options.

Tips for Success in Each Domain

To thrive in either domain, you’ll need to employ specific strategies tailored to the unique demands of each field while leveraging your core writing skills. Whether you’re pursuing technical or creative writing, professional development is crucial for staying ahead and overcoming writing challenges. Here are some tips for success in each domain:

For technical writing:

Stay updated with industry trends and technology advancements
Regularly attend workshops or conferences related to your niche
Focus on clarity and precision in language
Develop strong research skills to establish credibility
Learn various documentation styles and formats

For creative writing:

Experiment with different genres and styles to find your voice .
Join a writers’ group or take creative writing classes for feedback and support .
Read widely to expose yourself to diverse perspectives and ideas .
Balance self-expression with audience engagement by considering their desires, emotions, and needs .
Embrace vulnerability through an honest exploration of themes that resonate with readers.

In both fields, seeking continuous growth is essential. When engaging in technical writing, I strive for accuracy without losing sight of the importance of engaging storytelling.

Don’t be afraid to push boundaries in creative endeavors – remember that your audience has a subconscious desire for freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a writer successfully transition from technical writing to creative writing, or vice versa.

Unleash your creative adaptations, finding writing balance in the transition. Embrace both worlds, blending concise language with engaging storytelling. Master accurate information presentation while satisfying your audience’s subconscious desire for freedom.

Are any specific software or tools recommended for technical writers and creative writers to enhance their work?

Explore software comparisons and tool adaptations to enhance your writing. Technical writers often use programs like Adobe FrameMaker, while creative writers benefit from tools like Scrivener.

Can someone excel in technical and creative writing, or is it better to focus on one area to build expertise?

You’re at a crossroads: balancing expertise or embracing skill versatility. Excelling in both technical and creative writing is possible, but focusing on one area might deepen your mastery.

How do the revision and editing processes differ between technical writing and creative writing? Are there any specific strategies or techniques that should be employed for each?

In revising creative writing, focus on storytelling and emotional impact. For technical writing, prioritize clarity and accuracy. Employ editing strategies to ensure consistency in style, tone, and formatting for each genre.

Are there any notable examples of individuals who have succeeded in both technical and creative writing, and what lessons can be learned from their careers?

You can achieve notable dual success in technical and creative writing, like Kurt Vonnegut and Samuel R. Delany. Career lessons to learn: adapt your style, embrace versatility, and keep an open mind for growth.

So, you see how different technical and creative writing can be? Coincidentally, mastering one might even improve your skills in the other.

Keep exploring both worlds to sharpen your writing prowess.

Remember, the key lies in understanding their unique purposes and styles. Who knows? Maybe you’ll end up excelling at both!

Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

Find the perfect editor for your next book

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Guides • Understanding Publishing

Last updated on Feb 14, 2023

10 Types of Creative Writing (with Examples You’ll Love)

A lot falls under the term ‘creative writing’: poetry, short fiction, plays, novels, personal essays, and songs, to name just a few. By virtue of the creativity that characterizes it, creative writing is an extremely versatile art. So instead of defining what creative writing is , it may be easier to understand what it does by looking at examples that demonstrate the sheer range of styles and genres under its vast umbrella.

To that end, we’ve collected a non-exhaustive list of works across multiple formats that have inspired the writers here at Reedsy. With 20 different works to explore, we hope they will inspire you, too.

People have been writing creatively for almost as long as we have been able to hold pens. Just think of long-form epic poems like The Odyssey or, later, the Cantar de Mio Cid — some of the earliest recorded writings of their kind.

Poetry is also a great place to start if you want to dip your own pen into the inkwell of creative writing. It can be as short or long as you want (you don’t have to write an epic of Homeric proportions), encourages you to build your observation skills, and often speaks from a single point of view .

Here are a few examples:

“Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley

Nothing beside remains. Round the decay Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare The lone and level sands stretch far away.

The ruins of pillars and walls with the broken statue of a man in the center set against a bright blue sky.

This classic poem by Romantic poet Percy Shelley (also known as Mary Shelley’s husband) is all about legacy. What do we leave behind? How will we be remembered? The great king Ozymandias built himself a massive statue, proclaiming his might, but the irony is that his statue doesn’t survive the ravages of time. By framing this poem as told to him by a “traveller from an antique land,” Shelley effectively turns this into a story. Along with the careful use of juxtaposition to create irony, this poem accomplishes a lot in just a few lines.

“Trying to Raise the Dead” by Dorianne Laux

A direction. An object. My love, it needs a place to rest. Say anything. I’m listening. I’m ready to believe. Even lies, I don’t care.

Poetry is cherished for its ability to evoke strong emotions from the reader using very few words which is exactly what Dorianne Laux does in “ Trying to Raise the Dead .” With vivid imagery that underscores the painful yearning of the narrator, she transports us to a private nighttime scene as the narrator sneaks away from a party to pray to someone they’ve lost. We ache for their loss and how badly they want their lost loved one to acknowledge them in some way. It’s truly a masterclass on how writing can be used to portray emotions.

If you find yourself inspired to try out some poetry — and maybe even get it published — check out these poetry layouts that can elevate your verse!

Song Lyrics

Poetry’s closely related cousin, song lyrics are another great way to flex your creative writing muscles. You not only have to find the perfect rhyme scheme but also match it to the rhythm of the music. This can be a great challenge for an experienced poet or the musically inclined.

To see how music can add something extra to your poetry, check out these two examples:

“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

You say I took the name in vain I don't even know the name But if I did, well, really, what's it to ya? There's a blaze of light in every word It doesn't matter which you heard The holy or the broken Hallelujah

Metaphors are commonplace in almost every kind of creative writing, but will often take center stage in shorter works like poetry and songs. At the slightest mention, they invite the listener to bring their emotional or cultural experience to the piece, allowing the writer to express more with fewer words while also giving it a deeper meaning. If a whole song is couched in metaphor, you might even be able to find multiple meanings to it, like in Leonard Cohen’s “ Hallelujah .” While Cohen’s Biblical references create a song that, on the surface, seems like it’s about a struggle with religion, the ambiguity of the lyrics has allowed it to be seen as a song about a complicated romantic relationship.

“I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

If Heaven and Hell decide that they both are satisfied Illuminate the no's on their vacancy signs If there's no one beside you when your soul embarks Then I'll follow you into the dark

You can think of song lyrics as poetry set to music. They manage to do many of the same things their literary counterparts do — including tugging on your heartstrings. Death Cab for Cutie’s incredibly popular indie rock ballad is about the singer’s deep devotion to his lover. While some might find the song a bit too dark and macabre, its melancholy tune and poignant lyrics remind us that love can endure beyond death.

Plays and Screenplays

From the short form of poetry, we move into the world of drama — also known as the play. This form is as old as the poem, stretching back to the works of ancient Greek playwrights like Sophocles, who adapted the myths of their day into dramatic form. The stage play (and the more modern screenplay) gives the words on the page a literal human voice, bringing life to a story and its characters entirely through dialogue.

Interested to see what that looks like? Take a look at these examples:

All My Sons by Arthur Miller

“I know you're no worse than most men but I thought you were better. I never saw you as a man. I saw you as my father.”

Arthur Miller acts as a bridge between the classic and the new, creating 20th century tragedies that take place in living rooms and backyard instead of royal courts, so we had to include his breakout hit on this list. Set in the backyard of an all-American family in the summer of 1946, this tragedy manages to communicate family tensions in an unimaginable scale, building up to an intense climax reminiscent of classical drama.

💡 Read more about Arthur Miller and classical influences in our breakdown of Freytag’s pyramid .

“Everything is Fine” by Michael Schur ( The Good Place )

“Well, then this system sucks. What...one in a million gets to live in paradise and everyone else is tortured for eternity? Come on! I mean, I wasn't freaking Gandhi, but I was okay. I was a medium person. I should get to spend eternity in a medium place! Like Cincinnati. Everyone who wasn't perfect but wasn't terrible should get to spend eternity in Cincinnati.”

A screenplay, especially a TV pilot, is like a mini-play, but with the extra job of convincing an audience that they want to watch a hundred more episodes of the show. Blending moral philosophy with comedy, The Good Place is a fun hang-out show set in the afterlife that asks some big questions about what it means to be good.

It follows Eleanor Shellstrop, an incredibly imperfect woman from Arizona who wakes up in ‘The Good Place’ and realizes that there’s been a cosmic mixup. Determined not to lose her place in paradise, she recruits her “soulmate,” a former ethics professor, to teach her philosophy with the hope that she can learn to be a good person and keep up her charade of being an upstanding citizen. The pilot does a superb job of setting up the stakes, the story, and the characters, while smuggling in deep philosophical ideas.

Personal essays

Our first foray into nonfiction on this list is the personal essay. As its name suggests, these stories are in some way autobiographical — concerned with the author’s life and experiences. But don’t be fooled by the realistic component. These essays can take any shape or form, from comics to diary entries to recipes and anything else you can imagine. Typically zeroing in on a single issue, they allow you to explore your life and prove that the personal can be universal.

Here are a couple of fantastic examples:

“On Selling Your First Novel After 11 Years” by Min Jin Lee (Literary Hub)

There was so much to learn and practice, but I began to see the prose in verse and the verse in prose. Patterns surfaced in poems, stories, and plays. There was music in sentences and paragraphs. I could hear the silences in a sentence. All this schooling was like getting x-ray vision and animal-like hearing.

This deeply honest personal essay by Pachinko author Min Jin Lee is an account of her eleven-year struggle to publish her first novel . Like all good writing, it is intensely focused on personal emotional details. While grounded in the specifics of the author's personal journey, it embodies an experience that is absolutely universal: that of difficulty and adversity met by eventual success.

“A Cyclist on the English Landscape” by Roff Smith (New York Times)

These images, though, aren’t meant to be about me. They’re meant to represent a cyclist on the landscape, anybody — you, perhaps.

Roff Smith’s gorgeous photo essay for the NYT is a testament to the power of creatively combining visuals with text. Here, photographs of Smith atop a bike are far from simply ornamental. They’re integral to the ruminative mood of the essay, as essential as the writing. Though Smith places his work at the crosscurrents of various aesthetic influences (such as the painter Edward Hopper), what stands out the most in this taciturn, thoughtful piece of writing is his use of the second person to address the reader directly. Suddenly, the writer steps out of the body of the essay and makes eye contact with the reader. The reader is now part of the story as a second character, finally entering the picture.

Short Fiction

The short story is the happy medium of fiction writing. These bite-sized narratives can be devoured in a single sitting and still leave you reeling. Sometimes viewed as a stepping stone to novel writing, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Short story writing is an art all its own. The limited length means every word counts and there’s no better way to see that than with these two examples:

“An MFA Story” by Paul Dalla Rosa (Electric Literature)

At Starbucks, I remembered a reading Zhen had given, a reading organized by the program’s faculty. I had not wanted to go but did. In the bar, he read, "I wrote this in a Starbucks in Shanghai. On the bank of the Huangpu." It wasn’t an aside or introduction. It was two lines of the poem. I was in a Starbucks and I wasn’t writing any poems. I wasn’t writing anything.

Creative Writing Examples | Photograph of New York City street.

This short story is a delightfully metafictional tale about the struggles of being a writer in New York. From paying the bills to facing criticism in a writing workshop and envying more productive writers, Paul Dalla Rosa’s story is a clever satire of the tribulations involved in the writing profession, and all the contradictions embodied by systemic creativity (as famously laid out in Mark McGurl’s The Program Era ). What’s more, this story is an excellent example of something that often happens in creative writing: a writer casting light on the private thoughts or moments of doubt we don’t admit to or openly talk about.

“Flowering Walrus” by Scott Skinner (Reedsy)

I tell him they’d been there a month at least, and he looks concerned. He has my tongue on a tissue paper and is gripping its sides with his pointer and thumb. My tongue has never spent much time outside of my mouth, and I imagine it as a walrus basking in the rays of the dental light. My walrus is not well.

A winner of Reedsy’s weekly Prompts writing contest, ‘ Flowering Walrus ’ is a story that balances the trivial and the serious well. In the pauses between its excellent, natural dialogue , the story manages to scatter the fear and sadness of bad medical news, as the protagonist hides his worries from his wife and daughter. Rich in subtext, these silences grow and resonate with the readers.

Want to give short story writing a go? Give our free course a go!

FREE COURSE

How to Craft a Killer Short Story

From pacing to character development, master the elements of short fiction.

Perhaps the thing that first comes to mind when talking about creative writing, novels are a form of fiction that many people know and love but writers sometimes find intimidating. The good news is that novels are nothing but one word put after another, like any other piece of writing, but expanded and put into a flowing narrative. Piece of cake, right?

To get an idea of the format’s breadth of scope, take a look at these two (very different) satirical novels:

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

I wished I was back in the convenience store where I was valued as a working member of staff and things weren’t as complicated as this. Once we donned our uniforms, we were all equals regardless of gender, age, or nationality — all simply store workers.

Creative Writing Examples | Book cover of Convenience Store Woman

Keiko, a thirty-six-year-old convenience store employee, finds comfort and happiness in the strict, uneventful routine of the shop’s daily operations. A funny, satirical, but simultaneously unnerving examination of the social structures we take for granted, Sayaka Murata’s Convenience Store Woman is deeply original and lingers with the reader long after they’ve put it down.

Erasure by Percival Everett

The hard, gritty truth of the matter is that I hardly ever think about race. Those times when I did think about it a lot I did so because of my guilt for not thinking about it.

Erasure is a truly accomplished satire of the publishing industry’s tendency to essentialize African American authors and their writing. Everett’s protagonist is a writer whose work doesn’t fit with what publishers expect from him — work that describes the “African American experience” — so he writes a parody novel about life in the ghetto. The publishers go crazy for it and, to the protagonist’s horror, it becomes the next big thing. This sophisticated novel is both ironic and tender, leaving its readers with much food for thought.

Creative Nonfiction

Creative nonfiction is pretty broad: it applies to anything that does not claim to be fictional (although the rise of autofiction has definitely blurred the boundaries between fiction and nonfiction). It encompasses everything from personal essays and memoirs to humor writing, and they range in length from blog posts to full-length books. The defining characteristic of this massive genre is that it takes the world or the author’s experience and turns it into a narrative that a reader can follow along with.

Here, we want to focus on novel-length works that dig deep into their respective topics. While very different, these two examples truly show the breadth and depth of possibility of creative nonfiction:

Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward

Men’s bodies litter my family history. The pain of the women they left behind pulls them from the beyond, makes them appear as ghosts. In death, they transcend the circumstances of this place that I love and hate all at once and become supernatural.

Writer Jesmyn Ward recounts the deaths of five men from her rural Mississippi community in as many years. In her award-winning memoir , she delves into the lives of the friends and family she lost and tries to find some sense among the tragedy. Working backwards across five years, she questions why this had to happen over and over again, and slowly unveils the long history of racism and poverty that rules rural Black communities. Moving and emotionally raw, Men We Reaped is an indictment of a cruel system and the story of a woman's grief and rage as she tries to navigate it.

Cork Dork by Bianca Bosker

He believed that wine could reshape someone’s life. That’s why he preferred buying bottles to splurging on sweaters. Sweaters were things. Bottles of wine, said Morgan, “are ways that my humanity will be changed.”

In this work of immersive journalism , Bianca Bosker leaves behind her life as a tech journalist to explore the world of wine. Becoming a “cork dork” takes her everywhere from New York’s most refined restaurants to science labs while she learns what it takes to be a sommelier and a true wine obsessive. This funny and entertaining trip through the past and present of wine-making and tasting is sure to leave you better informed and wishing you, too, could leave your life behind for one devoted to wine.

Illustrated Narratives (Comics, graphic novels)

Once relegated to the “funny pages”, the past forty years of comics history have proven it to be a serious medium. Comics have transformed from the early days of Jack Kirby’s superheroes into a medium where almost every genre is represented. Humorous one-shots in the Sunday papers stand alongside illustrated memoirs, horror, fantasy, and just about anything else you can imagine. This type of visual storytelling lets the writer and artist get creative with perspective, tone, and so much more. For two very different, though equally entertaining, examples, check these out:

Calvin & Hobbes by Bill Watterson

"Life is like topography, Hobbes. There are summits of happiness and success, flat stretches of boring routine and valleys of frustration and failure."

A Calvin and Hobbes comic strip. A little blond boy Calvin makes multiple silly faces in school photos. In the last panel, his father says, "That's our son. *Sigh*" His mother then says, "The pictures will remind of more than we want to remember."

This beloved comic strip follows Calvin, a rambunctious six-year-old boy, and his stuffed tiger/imaginary friend, Hobbes. They get into all kinds of hijinks at school and at home, and muse on the world in the way only a six-year-old and an anthropomorphic tiger can. As laugh-out-loud funny as it is, Calvin & Hobbes ’ popularity persists as much for its whimsy as its use of humor to comment on life, childhood, adulthood, and everything in between.

From Hell by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell

"I shall tell you where we are. We're in the most extreme and utter region of the human mind. A dim, subconscious underworld. A radiant abyss where men meet themselves. Hell, Netley. We're in Hell."

Comics aren't just the realm of superheroes and one-joke strips, as Alan Moore proves in this serialized graphic novel released between 1989 and 1998. A meticulously researched alternative history of Victorian London’s Ripper killings, this macabre story pulls no punches. Fact and fiction blend into a world where the Royal Family is involved in a dark conspiracy and Freemasons lurk on the sidelines. It’s a surreal mad-cap adventure that’s unsettling in the best way possible.

Video Games and RPGs

Probably the least expected entry on this list, we thought that video games and RPGs also deserved a mention — and some well-earned recognition for the intricate storytelling that goes into creating them.

Essentially gamified adventure stories, without attention to plot, characters, and a narrative arc, these games would lose a lot of their charm, so let’s look at two examples where the creative writing really shines through:

80 Days by inkle studios

"It was a triumph of invention over nature, and will almost certainly disappear into the dust once more in the next fifty years."

Named Time Magazine ’s game of the year in 2014, this narrative adventure is based on Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne. The player is cast as the novel’s narrator, Passpartout, and tasked with circumnavigating the globe in service of their employer, Phileas Fogg. Set in an alternate steampunk Victorian era, the game uses its globe-trotting to comment on the colonialist fantasies inherent in the original novel and its time period. On a storytelling level, the choose-your-own-adventure style means no two players’ journeys will be the same. This innovative approach to a classic novel shows the potential of video games as a storytelling medium, truly making the player part of the story.

What Remains of Edith Finch by Giant Sparrow

"If we lived forever, maybe we'd have time to understand things. But as it is, I think the best we can do is try to open our eyes, and appreciate how strange and brief all of this is."

This video game casts the player as 17-year-old Edith Finch. Returning to her family’s home on an island in the Pacific northwest, Edith explores the vast house and tries to figure out why she’s the only one of her family left alive. The story of each family member is revealed as you make your way through the house, slowly unpacking the tragic fate of the Finches. Eerie and immersive, this first-person exploration game uses the medium to tell a series of truly unique tales.

Fun and breezy on the surface, humor is often recognized as one of the trickiest forms of creative writing. After all, while you can see the artistic value in a piece of prose that you don’t necessarily enjoy, if a joke isn’t funny, you could say that it’s objectively failed.

With that said, it’s far from an impossible task, and many have succeeded in bringing smiles to their readers’ faces through their writing. Here are two examples:

‘How You Hope Your Extended Family Will React When You Explain Your Job to Them’ by Mike Lacher (McSweeney’s Internet Tendency)

“Is it true you don’t have desks?” your grandmother will ask. You will nod again and crack open a can of Country Time Lemonade. “My stars,” she will say, “it must be so wonderful to not have a traditional office and instead share a bistro-esque coworking space.”

An open plan office seen from a bird's eye view. There are multiple strands of Edison lights hanging from the ceiling. At long light wooden tables multiple people sit working at computers, many of them wearing headphones.

Satire and parody make up a whole subgenre of creative writing, and websites like McSweeney’s Internet Tendency and The Onion consistently hit the mark with their parodies of magazine publishing and news media. This particular example finds humor in the divide between traditional family expectations and contemporary, ‘trendy’ work cultures. Playing on the inherent silliness of today’s tech-forward middle-class jobs, this witty piece imagines a scenario where the writer’s family fully understands what they do — and are enthralled to hear more. “‘Now is it true,’ your uncle will whisper, ‘that you’ve got a potential investment from one of the founders of I Can Haz Cheezburger?’”

‘Not a Foodie’ by Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell (Electric Literature)

I’m not a foodie, I never have been, and I know, in my heart, I never will be.

Highlighting what she sees as an unbearable social obsession with food , in this comic Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell takes a hilarious stand against the importance of food. From the writer’s courageous thesis (“I think there are more exciting things to talk about, and focus on in life, than what’s for dinner”) to the amusing appearance of family members and the narrator’s partner, ‘Not a Foodie’ demonstrates that even a seemingly mundane pet peeve can be approached creatively — and even reveal something profound about life.

We hope this list inspires you with your own writing. If there’s one thing you take away from this post, let it be that there is no limit to what you can write about or how you can write about it.

In the next part of this guide, we'll drill down into the fascinating world of creative nonfiction.

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

We made a writing app for you

Yes, you! Write. Format. Export for ebook and print. 100% free, always.

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

Technical Writing 101: 360 Guide on How to Start your Technical Writing Journey

Photo by Green Chameleon on Unsplash

What makes a technical writer, what is the goal of a technical writer, what is technical writing, examples of technical writing, are technical writers important, what are the skills needed for technical writing, how can writing increase your job opportunities, roles for technical writers, how to learn technical writing, list of technical writers you can follow, free platforms where you can publish your content, the best method to find writing gigs, is technical writing a promising career, do you need a university degree for a technical writing, how much does a technical writer earn.

You might have the impression that writers are born. But no, they are made!

Writing is a skill you can learn, sharpen, and master through consistent practice over time. All it takes is good resources to learn and to write and read what other writers have written constantly.

Lisa See says, "reading a thousand books will make your words flow like a river".

Are you a lover of emerging technologies, someone who likes to explain things in a way that even a 6-year-old baby can understand? Or are you a developer who loves to share ideas and teach people via written content? Then technical writing is for you. So, let's get started!

A technical writer is a person who writes company documents such as user manuals, reference guides, business plans, legal disclaimers, operating procedure guides, white papers, and specialized product descriptions.

Many people often think that only a person who writes code in an article is a technical writer, and that kind of belief is not accurate. A technical writer is a person who breaks down complex topics or concepts or writes a tutorial guide in any field to make it understandable for readers or users.

A technical writer aims to help readers fully understand a highly complex procedure or topic. To accomplish this, technical writers must be well-versed in the subject matter they are about to write on.

A technical writer, for example, can write on ZKEVM, Solidity, Angular.JS, or any other technical topic to make it understandable to readers.

Technical writing means communicating or conveying one's ideas, views, instructions, and suggestions more logically, technically, and professionally.

According to Grammar , technical writing means the author is writing about a specific subject that requires direction, teaching, or explanation.

This writing style differs significantly from others, and examples include creative writing, academic writing, and business writing.

For example, as a Google technical writer, you might provide documentation on how users can embed YouTube videos. If you're a Twitter technical writer, you could develop documentation explaining how people can build a Twitter profile.

Nevertheless, all technical writers have everyday job duties.

Product documents: concepts and features.
Procedures: how to perform actions.
API documentation: APIs and parameters with code samples.
Installation and configuration guides: steps to install and configure products.
User guides: different types of user guides target specific users. For example, user guides for end users and advanced users.
Admin Guide: Guides meant for Administrators with advanced features and permissions.
Error Docs: Guides explaining the Error Codes and how to fix them.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to help users quickly.
Knowledge Base: KB used by external users and internal Support teams.
Integration Guides: Steps to integrate third-party products.

Almost all current global enterprises demand technical documentation. Thus, creating such content has become a job title in and of itself.

All levels of the corporate and commercial hierarchy require someone to translate complex information into easily understood content for the end user. That is the job description for a technical content writer.

In this age, technical writers are indispensable.

The skills mentioned below are necessary to be an excellent technical writer.

1. Having a good command of the English language.

Before you can write content that people will like to read, you must first have a good command of English. Understanding tenses and punctuation and learning how to make a good paragraph.

Constructing good sentences is one of the ways to differentiate the experienced technical writer from the newbie.

2. Building your writing skill

Building your writing skills while starting your technical writing career is crucial. No matter the number of writing boot camps you have joined or online courses you have taken, you need to write consistently to see remarkable changes.

Building your writing skills means reading other writers' articles, and also it means that you need to write more. The more you write, the more you gain mastery over time.

You learn to write by writing, reading, and thinking about how writers have created their characters and invented their stories.

"If you are not a reader, don't think about being a writer." - Jean M. Auel

3. Research

"Research is seeing what everyone else sees and thinking what nobody else thinks." -Szent-Gyorgyi Albert. Research helps you write up-to-date content and understand what the readers want.

It assists you in gathering topic-related information from a variety of sources, including journals, blogs, rival literature, dissertations, whitepapers, and even professional social media, such as LinkedIn.

You must discern helpful information and narrow your research to specific points.

List those points in order of importance to the subject.

Lastly, your research may warrant that you interview current experts in that field or even take their course on the topic you are researching.

4. Audience Survey

One of the ways to create content that is users centric and helpful to readers is by asking the following questions before you start writing:

Who are my readers?
What do they need?
What is their knowledge level?
Why will they be reading?
How will they be reading?

Your answer to these questions will help you write quality readers-centric content.

5. Content Planning

Planning is key to having a successful execution of anything.

Content planning allows you to have the readers in mind while drafting a content outline.

It helps you to know what to include and what not to include while drafting the content outline.

As a technical writer, the beauty of your work comes out in editing; that is why many organizations have editors. It is in editing that your work comes alive.

While you are starting as a technical writer and don't have an editor, it is vital to learn the rudiments of editing. It is in editing you discover grammatical errors and others.

Pay quality attention to editing; this will make you stand out from other technical writers.

Technical writing can help developers to showcase their expertise and skills to potential clients.
Developers can demonstrate their knowledge and experience in their field by publishing technical articles, blog posts, or tutorials.
Technical writing helps developers build a personal brand.
Technical writing improves networking, collaboration, and career advancement opportunities.
Technical writing can help developers to improve their communication and collaboration skills.

Here are some of the roles that companies expect a technical writer to fill:

1. Technical Writer

While writers can have a profound experience in the area they're writing about, it's beneficial to have at least some practical knowledge of certain aspects of work from a technical standpoint. For example, blockchain writers should know how blockchain works.

2. User Experience (UX) Writer

It refers to communication abilities. A UX writer should be able to write product descriptions and guides. They aim to write about their reader's pain areas and provide solutions.

3. Technical Researcher

Conducting research is one of the fundamental skills for a writer. The technical researcher must refine and streamline their search to gather the most helpful information about a subject swiftly.

4. Documentation Engineer

They are the ones involved in writing documentation for different projects. Some projects may necessitate the creation of many publications on the same topic for readers with varying levels of expertise.

Writers must understand which sources include enough knowledge to assist all readers and then spin the content to appeal to novice and advanced readers.

5. Developer Advocate

They write developer-centric content that drives awareness about the company's product.

A developer advocate is part of developer relations and, as such, is often known as DevRel.

They are the face of the developer team of the company.

1. Taking a Course

The best way to learn these skills is to do an online course. What happens with a course is that it binds you in a structure so that you can learn more efficiently.

The following are the online learning platforms where you can take courses on technical writing.

a). Coursera

https://www.coursera.org/learn/engineering-writing

https://www.udemy.com/topic/technical-writing/

c). Google Technical Writing Course

https://developers.google.com/tech-writing

2. Self-Training

Self-training is essential. Even when taking a course, you must learn on your own.

You can begin by reading several books on the subject and digesting a large amount of knowledge. After all, being unique is essential, and if you can discover something by self-studying, then only you can produce some unique technical content.

3. Learn from a Professional

If you know someone who has been in this profession for a long time, you can also take shelter in their mentorship.

4. Learn on the Job

You need to keep learning. Every day something new is coming up, so you must keep up with those things.

The technical writers in this list are amazing people; you should learn from their experience.

Just as iron sharpens iron, so also writers can sharpen each other.

Victor Fawole

It is good to write consistently. However, your write-ups should not be in your google docs; you have to publish them for people to read, so you can benefit from all the gains they provide.

Here are the platforms that I can recommend for you:

Network with people in their DMs
Show your expertise via communication.
Show your work via GitHub or any other means.
Deliver the best technical content.

Ask your favorite DevRel person if they need a good writer; you can help to build the subsequent integration, docs, or that pending blog post.

Becoming a technical writer is viable if you enjoy writing and dealing with technology.

To deliver effective instruction and outstanding writing abilities, you should have a decent background in English, which you can get by completing online classes or studying the topic.

Gone are the days when only graduates from the English or communication department in university or college could be technical writers.

Currently, no degree is required; you only need a good portfolio that you can show the employer as proof that you have written a technical article before, and you can help them write the technical content they desire.

According to Glassdoor , the national average base salary for technical writers is $77,812. Additionally, the average salary range is between $39,000 and $155,000.

Some tech companies offer technical writers $100 to $600 per article they publish on their platforms. Some hire technical writers with a minimum hourly pay of $35.

Suppose you love to create content focusing on various Web3 topics. QuickNode has an excellent authorship program. You will get paid $350 per article. That's a way to start your technical writing.

Finally, if you want to work as a technical writer, discover which specialized content type best suits your writing skills and employment requirements.

To some extent, technical writers must be subject matter specialists because they produce the material that professionals in a field would study to become experts in their area.

Their competence stems from extensive theoretical research into a professional field or issue and creating content based on their findings.

The key to success is to begin writing. No tricks or shortcuts are needed; start creating.

Software Engineering Tutorial
Software Development Life Cycle
Waterfall Model
Software Requirements
Software Measurement and Metrics
Software Design Process
System configuration management
Software Maintenance
Software Development Tutorial
Software Testing Tutorial
Product Management Tutorial
Project Management Tutorial
Agile Methodology
Selenium Basics
Difference between ERP and SCM
Difference between Open source Software and Commercial Software
Difference between Open source Software and Proprietary Software
Difference between Data Scientist and Software Engineer
Difference between System Testing and Stress Testing
Difference between Adhoc Testing and Monkey Testing
Difference between NFS and iSCSI
Grafana vs Kibana
Difference between Information Technology and Communication Technology
Difference between Information System and Information Technology
Difference between Ansible and Puppet
Difference between Computer Information System and Management Information System
Differences between defect, bug and failure - Software Engineering
Difference between NVP and CPRR
Difference between IWMS and CAFM
Difference between Structure chart and Flow chart
Difference between Project and Product
Difference between Corporate Communication and Marketing Communication
Difference between Article and Blog

Difference between Technical Writing and Creative Writing

1. Technical Writing : Technical writing is a piece of writing which focuses on factual and straight forward content and technical papers are published to inform and instruct and educate the user about some specific topic. There exists specific readers who prefers technical papers. It gives readers information about some technical topics or it gives directions on how to do something.

2. Creative Writing : Creative writing is a piece of writing which focuses on imaginative and symbolic content and creative papers are published to entertain, provoke, inspire the user. There is no such specific readers who prefers creative papers. Anyone if wants can read creative paper and it gives readers a theme, message, moral or lesson which is helpful in their real lives or gives a temporary entertainment to the reader.

Difference between Technical Writing and Creative Writing :

Please Login to comment...

Difference Between
Software Engineering
WhatsApp To Launch New App Lock Feature
Top Design Resources for Icons
Node.js 21 is here: What’s new
Zoom: World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024
30 OOPs Interview Questions and Answers (2024)

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

IMAGES

33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF) ᐅ TemplateLab
33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF) ᐅ TemplateLab
What Are the 5 Importance of Technical Writing? by Content Whale
33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF) ᐅ TemplateLab
33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF) ᐅ TemplateLab
33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF) ᐅ TemplateLab

VIDEO

Professional Writing Video
Creative Writing Definition,Example in Urdu and Hindi
Strategies For Successful Academic Writing & Publication
Technical writing video
Practical & Creative Writing Lessons : How to Write a Radio Script
What Is Technical Writing?

COMMENTS

11 Technical Writing Examples & Samples in 2024
Examples of this type of technical writing include step-by-step process guides, internal wikis, KPI and goal reporting, OKRs, and HR policies. 4. Technical Marketing Communications. ... Unlike creative writing, technical writing doesn't need to invoke the reader's emotions - but instead, its goal is to convey complex information in an ...
8 Great Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You
1. User Manuals. Writing a user manual is a daunting task for a technical writer , as it contains all the instructions a user needs to operate a product or feature. Writing a user manual requires a combination of organizational and technical writing skills, so it is an essential example of technical writing to follow.
8 Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You
The different types of technical writing have unique characteristics that you can easily learn and master effectively. 1. User Manuals. User manuals or instruction manuals come with various products, such as consumer electronics like televisions, consoles, cellphones, kitchen appliances, and more.
Technical Writing 101: Examples and How to Become One (2024)
Technical writing is a form of writing on a specific topic that requires guidance, instruction, or explanation. This writing style serves a unique purpose and therefore has very different qualities than other types of writing, such as creative writing, academic writing, or business writing. Because of this, technical writing is vital to a wide ...
Technical writing: Twelve examples for the future
Technical writing is the art of conveying complex information clearly, concisely, and user-friendly. In the words of the UK government's careers guidance, technical writers take "a user-centered approach to making complicated technical concepts easier to understand for a specialist audience."It involves creating technical documents, such as user guides, manuals, and instructions, that ...
7 best technical writing examples to improve your skills
The Slack Help Center is an excellent example of technical writing that speaks to the layman. Slack is known for its brilliant UX copywriting. Amruta Ranade, Staff Technical Writer for Airbyte, admires the company's documentation writing style. "Slack's Help Center shows incredible user-awareness.
Creativity in Technical Writing: Why it Matters and How to Use it
Creativity is an important skill for technical writers to cultivate. It can help you create more engaging and effective documents, solve problems, and simply make your work more enjoyable. Don't ...
A Guide to Technical Writing (With Examples)
Here are some examples of who might read technical writing: · A renter of an apartment that needs details on their lease. · An electrical engineer who needs to know how the wiring is laid out in the apartment block. · The janitor of that same building who needs to know the location of the emergency lights. · The occupant of apartment 61 ...
Technical Writing: The Complete Guide
Technical writing comes with a different style, it carries a different purpose and involves different characteristics that are different from other writing styles such as creative writing ...
18 Expert Tips to Foster Creativity in Technical Writing
Technical writing job continues to grow over the years. In fact, it is #4 in Best Creative and Media Jobs and is expected to have a further vertical rise in 2022.. By definition, technical writing is any written form of writing or drafting technical communication used in a variety of technical and occupational fields, such as computer hardware and software, engineering, chemistry, aeronautics ...
What Is Technical Writing?
Technical writing is a category of expository writing: a written work designed to explain facts or process clearly and unambiguously to the target audience. You find technical writing in all kinds of places today: User manuals for every kind of product or service. Help files embedded in computer programs.
19 Technical Writing Examples: A Comprehensive Exploration
A real-world example of RFP as a typical technical writing example is the New York Building Congress' Website Design and Development Request for Proposal. Tip: Clearly communicate the goals and expectations of the project in the RFP document to ensure that vendors provide relevant and targeted proposals. Additionally, establish a responsive ...
5 Strong Technical Writing Examples (and What They Do Well)
5. White Papers. 6. Service Level Agreements (SLA) This writing style requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to communicate effectively. The best way to improve your technical writing skills is to practice. You can use these five technical writing examples to help you do just that. 1.
10 Best Technical Writing Examples & Samples in 2024
It's a key way we share information about products or systems. Thus, in this section, we will check out 10 examples of technical writing in different areas. 1. User Manuals. User manuals accompany products like electronics, which provide a comprehensive guide for users, particularly beginners.
33 Good Technical Writing Examples (Word & PDF)
Download 30 KB. #33. Even if technical writing skills take high-levels details, you should still explain these concisely and clearly to your audience. As a technical writer, you should come up with documents that are very clear, simple, and succinct. Sometimes, though, the results could just be the opposite.
Technical Writing and Creativity. Can technical writing be creative
In the academic setting, creative writing is typically separated into fiction and poetry classes, with a focus on writing in an original style, as opposed to imitating pre-existing genres such as ...
Best technical writing style guide examples
In addition to traditional technical writing (content produced with a technical audience in mind, like appliance repair manuals and programmer guides), there are five umbrellas assignments tend to fall under: Technological marketing content: Technical writing that's tied to advertising, product promotion, and marketing. Examples:
What Are The Differences Between Technical Writing And Creative Writing
Technical writing relies on visuals for clarity; creative writing focuses on text-based storytelling. Uses headings & subheadings. May use unconventional formatting. Technical writing organizes content with a clear hierarchy; creative writing may play with the layout for effect. Often includes tables & charts.
10 Types of Creative Writing (with Examples You'll Love)
A lot falls under the term 'creative writing': poetry, short fiction, plays, novels, personal essays, and songs, to name just a few. By virtue of the creativity that characterizes it, creative writing is an extremely versatile art. So instead of defining what creative writing is, it may be easier to understand what it does by looking at ...
Technical Writing 101: 360 Guide on How to Start your Technical Writing
Understanding tenses and punctuation and learning how to make a good paragraph. Constructing good sentences is one of the ways to differentiate the experienced technical writer from the newbie. 2. Building your writing skill. Building your writing skills while starting your technical writing career is crucial.
What Is Technical Writing? Techniques and Examples of Technical ...
Some examples include computer hardware, computer software, medical equipment, engineering equipment, automotive vehicles, various consumer products, and much more. Sometimes, technical writing is necessary when conveying something technical in a proposal. When trying to get support for a business idea through investments and loans ...
Difference between Technical Writing and Creative Writing
01. Technical writing is based on facts and concepts. General writing is based on imaginations and creativity. 02. Technical writing focuses on factual and straight forward content. Creative writing focuses on imaginative and symbolic content. 03. Technical writing has its specific reader/audience.
Technical Writing vs Creative Writing
Creative writers can also work as screenwriters, editors, writing coaches, lyricists, and journalists. Technical writing draws on many of the same skills, but requires the writer to be more direct. In an ever-changing world being able to express an idea or theme in a clear and concise manner has never been more important.

Related Topics

8 Great Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is Technical Writing?

8 Best Technical Writing Examples

2. API Documentation

3. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

4. Press Releases

5. Business Plans

6. Company Documents

7. Annual Reports

6 Steps to Craft the Best Technical Document in 2022

1. Know Your Audience

2. Do Your Research

3. Craft an Outline

4. Prioritize Readability

5. Add Visuals

6. Cut the Fluff

Tips for Improving Technical Writing

Related Posts

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

RELATED TOPICS

8 Technical Writing Examples to Inspire You

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Exactly is Technical Writing?

8 Technical Writing Examples to Get You Started

1. User Manuals

2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

3. Case Studies & White Papers

4. API Documentation

5. Press Releases

6. Company Documents

7. Annual Reports

8. Business Plans

Becoming an Expert Technical Writer

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

Technical writing: 12 examples for the future

What is technical writing?

The twelve forms of technical writing that you need to know

The technical writing tools you’ll need

Technical writing alternatives for the modern workplace

Get your technical writing in order

Like what you are reading?

7 best technical writing examples to improve your skills

Afoma Umesi

Table of contents

Lead with Content

Padma Gillen

What is technical writing?

6 Steps to Writing a Technical Piece That People Actually Want to Read

1. Identify Your Audience

2. Dig Deep in Your Research

3. Create an Outline

4. Focus on Readability

5. Add Visuals

6. Cut the Fluff

7 of the Best Technical Writing Examples from Technical SMEs

Pipedrive’s Developer Documentation

University of Wisconsin Onboarding Tool Kit

Cell Reports Medical Study

LG Refrigerator Manual

Mashable India’s User Agreement

Slack Help Center

Ramp Up Your Technical Writing

Content Creation: The Essential Guide

About the author

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

A Guide to Technical Writing (With Examples)

What Is Technical Writing?

Instructions for Carrying Out a Task

Operating Manuals for Machinery, Appliances, or Systems

Specialized Topics

So How Do I Produce a Great Piece of Technical Writing?

Who Is It For?

What Do They Need?

How Should Technical Writing Be Composed?

Find this useful?

Examples of Technical Writing

Is technical writing difficult?

Are there professional bodies for technical writers?