Here is a range of resources that you many want to have handy if you’re a technical writer or want to become one. This page is a work in progress and will be updated as needed.
Helpful Google Search Keywords
Here are some google searches to make that begin with ‘technical writing’ for your convenience. Queries like these were used to conduct this research. It’s important to know that when making google queries, skip including articles and prepositions. Most queries can be completed using only nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
Begin your search with these keywords: `technical writing` then add one of the additinal keywords below. For example compose a search for `technical writing book.
- resources
- organization
- book
- forum
- certification
- course
- style guide
Technical Writing Books
This abbreviated list of books are a good starting point to learn technical writing. Write The Docs has a more comprehensive book list.
Technical Writing Communities
The number of active forums is low in number.
Certification & Education
There aren’t any professional organization certifications but there are courses available online and at universities.
- Certificate in Professional Technical Writing at University of Washington (online)
- American Medical Writers Association
- Certificate of Technical Writing at Dalhousie University
- Udemy
Technical Writing Conferences
Aside from Write The Doc’s annual conference, there don’t seem to be other technical writing conferences available.
Writing Style and Guides
These style guides are a good starting point if you don’t have one already. The Chicago Manual of Style has been around for decads. I have the 15th edition that was printed in 2003.
Professional Organizations
Aside from STC, which is now bankrupt, there doesn’t seem to be another technical writing membership organizations.
- Society for Technical Communication (no longer exists)
Graphics and Illustrations
These are tools that can be used to create graphics, illustrations, and diagrams. Some are free to use, available as apps, or require a subscription. For example, Adobe Fresco is free to use while Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom and Express require a subscription.
- Adobe Photoshop (mobile, desktop)
- Adobe Lightroom
- Adobe Fresco
- Adobe Fonts
- Adobe Express
- Procreate
- Apple Freeform
- Lucid Chart
API Documentation Platforms
Documenting an application programming interface (API) isn’t a one size fits all solution.
Understand APIs
Use these resources to explore application programming interfaces or to document them.
Interesting articles
These articles contain good starter infrmation on technical writing for application programming interfaces (APIs).
Graphic Design and Creative Inspiration
Use these guides for design and layout inspiration. Because it’s technical writing doesn’t mean it has to be boring.
Podcasts
There are a few out there listed on Feedspot that is a good place to start.