Since technical documents are meant to help readers simplify information and accomplish the tasks at hand right away, a Technical Writer must be able to write documents that are clear, concise and usable. Familiarity with technology and a grasp of domain fundamentals are key to success as a Technical Writer. Technical writing essentially involves organizing information, putting it into user-friendly language, selecting graphics, writing sidebars, and imposing a consistent format, checking back with experts to fill in blanks and ensuring that no errors have been introduced. In order to create impeccable documentation, Technical Writers often work in teams and collaborate with subject experts, programmers and various technicians. Technical Writers often find themselves working against really tough deadlines, so an ability to time themselves and produce consistent quality is a must.
A good Technical Writer is the information catalyst between the producer and the user. In order to be a good Technical Writer, one needs to have a good understanding of the user perspective - information how it is wanted as against information as it exists. A thorough command over language, insight into technology and expertise with authoring tools and a thirst to expand knowledge are critical success factors for a Technical Writer. This is essential as, at times, a Technical Writer could be writing more than 100 pages of technical documentation every month on an array of subjects and sectors.
