Expert: Kaylyn Anderson - 12/21/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi Kaylyn,
I am working as a content writer and I got an offer as a technical writer. Before shifting to that i want to know about the knowledge that I should have in order to be comfortable in technical writing

ANSWER: Dear Voodi,
Thank you for writing to AllExperts. I am so glad that you are going to become a technical writer.  

What should you know? Know how to write a good sentence. This includes grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. I know you were a content writer. Have a good reference guide. In fact, shortly after the first of the year, go to "www.writerseries.com" for excellent reference guides for writing.

What exactly are you looking for? What industry are you going in? What will be your job function? I look forward to hearing from you so that I may better answer your question. I have lots of thoughts, but I do not want to crowd your question with them.

Sincerely,
Kaylyn




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Kaylyn,
Thanks for the reply.
I want to know about the tools that are going to be useful for a technical writer and how to use them effectively in the job mentioned.

Answer
Dear Voodi,
Thank you for your specificity.
1. Adobe FrameMaker. (Without a doubt, this is important!)
2. Know MS Word like the back of your hand.
3. Use PowerPoint. There's no need for the fanciful stuff, though. Use PPT for displaying information, not your skill at the cool stuff. (Read Edward Tufte on this.)
4. Robo-Help is one that people use.
5. Captivate.

Knowledge:
1. Have a working knowledge of Localization & Globalization

May your Christmas Holiday be Holy and Peaceful, and may your New Year bring you the desires of your heart.

Sincerely,
Kaylyn