Expert: Kaylyn Anderson - 6/6/2010

Question
Hi.  This may seem like a silly question, but is it necessary for technical writers to really be into technology/gadgets?  Thanks

Answer
Dear Danielle,

It's not a silly question, and I answer this with a smile. :-}

You do not have to be techno-whiz. You will need to know a few programs, however; I strongly urge you to gain experience in the following codes and programs.

1. XHTML & CSS: Regardless of the program you use, these two codes will help you modify and alter what you need. If you gain knowledge with these, you'll better understand the programs.

2. Dreamweaver
3. Flash
4. Photoshop

Those are the basics.

You will probably want to learn the following:
1. RoboHelp
2. Captivate
3. PHP
4. My SQL

Hope this helps. Now, if you do not have experience in any of these, do not let them be daunting. Take one at a time and work your way through it. When you have some good experience, put it in your resume and move to the next one. It does not matter how long it takes; either way: one year is one year, with or without the extra knowledge. You might as well go for the knowledge.

Sincerely,
Kaylyn