How to Get Started As a Technical Writer

How to Get Started As a Technical Writer

The Practical, Personal, No-Nonsense Guide to Launching Your Career in Technical Writing

About the Book

NOTE: This is the updated and much-expanded 2nd Edition of How to Get Started As a Technical Writer.

In 2014, US News and World Report named technical writing one of the "50 Best Careers" in the world. 

How to Get Started as a Technical Writer is a practical, personal, no-nonsense guide to preparing for and launching your career in technical writing. You won't find a lot of fluff or detailed instructions on how to write. Instead, you'll get concise, real-world information on what it *really* takes to break into the field. Take advantage of the author's 20+ years of industry experience to get answers to questions like: 

  • What is a technical writer? 
  • What does a typical day look like? 
  • What are the "must have" skills for a technical writer? 
  • How do I learn the skills and tools I need?
  • What does the future of technical writing look like?
  • Should I get more education? And, of course: 
  • How do I get experience and land my first job? 
Useful Web resources, glossary, and more

How to Get Started as a Technical Writer also includes an extensive list of useful web resources and a glossary of up-to-date technical writing terms.

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    • Education
    • Computers and Programming
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About the Author

James Gill
James Gill

Howdy. I'm James Gill, and I've worked in the software/hardware industry since the early 90's.

I've worked as a technical writer for big companies like Intel and Microsoft, but also mid-sized companies and startups. I also worked as a usability professional and UI designer, and now make my living slinging code as a web developer and writer. You might say the focus of my career has always been about improving the place where humans and technology meet.

Most of all, I like helping people succeed. I hope I can help you, too!

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