This document provides an overview of technical and scientific writing. It defines technical writing as writing that aims to get work done by changing how people do things. Technical writing takes complex information and makes it clear for lay audiences. The document lists many common types of technical communication materials and who creates them, including technical communication professionals and other professionals. It outlines some key differences between academic and technical writing, such as audience and purpose. The document also lists major traits of technical writing and its three primary purposes: to inform, persuade, and instruct.

1. Technical & Scientific
Writing
Teresa Foxworthy Cook

2. What is technical
writing/communication?

4. Definitions
• “writing that aims to get work done, to change people
by changing the way they do things.” (Riordan)
• taking complex information and making it clear for a
lay audience
• “the exchange of information that helps people
interact with technology, advance workplace
goals, and solve complex problems” (Gurak & Lannon)

5. Types of Technical Communication
• annual reports • instructions
• quick guides • descriptions
• scholarly articles • letters
• software guides • memos
• training materials • procedures
• promotional • social media content
materials • presentations
• technical reports • podcasts
• proposals • videos
• newsletters
• manuals
• user guides

6. Who creates these materials?

7. Two Types of Individuals
• technical communication professionals
• other professionals who write as part of their job

8. Differences between Academic
& Technical Writing
Academic Writing Technical Writing
Audience Singular - Teacher Varied & Changing
Purpose Earn a Grade/Display Complete a Task
Knowledge
Knowledge Base Audience Has More Writer Has More
Page Design Limited Infinite Variety

9. Major Traits of Technical Writing
• is audience centered
• enhances relationships
• enables readers to act
• occurs within a community
• is interactive
• is appropriate
• is responsible
• is designed
• has definite purposes

10. Three Primary Purposes of
Technical Communication
• to inform
• to persuade
• to instruct

11. • Technical Writing in Hollywood – YouTube

12. References
Gurak, Laura and John Lannon. Strategies for Technical Communication in
the Workplace. Boston: Longman, 2010.
Riordan, Daniel. Technical Report Writing Today.