Technical Writing / Hall Smith Palmer

Technical writing is a tool for the purpose of conveying information to a specific audience. It must follow a structure that best represents the facts in a clear and concise form. It is simply another form of communication through which information is given or exchanged. “The goal of technical writing is to enable readers to use new technology or understand a process or concept” (Alred, 1996). Effective technical writers must always know and address their targeted audience. Technical writers translate technical information into easily understandable language utilizing a direct, exact, and clear style of writing. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, “technical writers develop technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions.” Because the procedures described in these materials may involve hazardous material or equipment, visuals, layout, and design enhance clarity. Their initial step involves the issue of researching and evaluating data. This information then must be molded and presented in a way that is comprehendible to the intended reader.