Technical Writing Process Online

Technical Writing Process Online
Technical Writing Process Online

Welcome to the online edition of the Technical Writing Process. This edition is the most up-to-date, incorporating new content and updates not yet published in the book version.

The online edition of the book incorporates chapters from the forthcoming 2024 edition of the Technical Writing Process.

Table of Contents

Praise for the Book

Copyright Page

About This Book

Part 1: About the Profession

Part 2: Process

  • Chapter 7: Tailor the Process. Guidelines on adapting the technical writing process to fit specific projects and organizational needs, with case studies for practical illustration.

Part 3: Methods

Part 4: Plan

  • Chapter 9: Collect Information. Techniques and strategies for effective information collection, using frameworks like the DIKW Pyramid, and preparing for documentation projects.
  • Chapter 10: Make a Plan. Step-by-step guidance on planning documentation projects, emphasizing the importance of the PADRE method and Agile planning.
  • Chapter 11: Analyze Audience. Comprehensive approach to understanding and categorizing audiences in technical writing, using audience analysis methods and persona development.
  • Chapter 12: Define Review Team. Guidance on defining a review team early in the planning phase to ensure the accuracy and quality of technical documents.

Part 5: Design

  • Chapter 13: Design Structure. Insight into structuring technical documents for effectiveness and user-friendliness, including different organizational taxonomies and real-world application examples.
  • Chapter 14: Design Stylesheet. Deep dive into the use of stylesheets in document design, exploring graphic design principles and the impact of visual reading patterns on technical documentation.
  • Chapter 15: Design Templates. Practical guidance on creating and using templates in technical writing, emphasizing consistency, branding alignment, and the role of AI in template creation.

Part 6: Write

  • Chapter 16: Writing Principles. Fundamental principles of technical writing, with a focus on empathizing with readers, organizing information, and crafting polished prose.
  • Chapter 17: Write Draft. Guidance through the drafting stage in technical writing, including the iterative nature of writing, engagement with experts, and version control.
  • Chapter 18: Include Images. Importance of using visuals in technical documentation, covering theories like multimedia learning and cognitive load, and practical image selection tips.

Part 7: Edit

  • Chapter 19: Edit Drafts. Comprehensive overview of the editing stage in technical writing, including levels of editing, the use of AI tools, and practical editing steps.

Part 8: Review

  • Chapter 20: Review Draft. Detailed guide to the review phase in technical writing, covering peer and expert reviews, review etiquette, and managing feedback effectively.
  • Chapter 21: Validate and Test Information. Emphasis on the importance of validation and testing in ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of technical documentation.

Part 9: Translate

  • Chapter 22: Translation Theory. Exploration of translation and localization theories in technical writing, emphasizing cultural and linguistic nuances.
  • Chapter 23: Translation Practice. Practical strategies for managing translation projects in technical documentation, from document preparation to working with translation service providers.

Part 10: Publish

  • Chapter 24: Publish. Principles and practical steps for document control, publication, and communication with stakeholders in the final stages of document creation.

Part 11: Manage

  • Chapter 25: Manage Progress. Comprehensive guide to using tools and methodologies for tracking and managing progress in technical documentation tasks.

Templates

Samples

Glossary