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Alan S. Pringle and Sarah S. O'Keefe. 2000. Research Triangle Park, NC: Scriptorium Press. [ISBN 0-97047330-3. 258 pages, including index. $34.95 USD (softcover).]
Technical writing 101 lays out the basics of technical documentation in one easy-to-read volume. It covers the entire industry in sufficient detail to provide insights throughout. The pace is brisk, the writing crisp and clear. There's enough humor to keep the narrative interesting, but the authors get down to details whenever required to answer specific questions. The business principles behind technical writing shine through as well.
Although the book is of more than passing interest for experienced writers, it is definitely geared for beginners. It first tackles two important questions: "Who should become a technical writer?" and "Can I make any money at it?" Here are the answers:
If you're a talented writer with an interest in technical topics, writing technical documentation can be quite lucrative. This book gives you the advice and tools you'll need to get started. (p. 19)
If you've never hired a technical writer, what would you look for? According to this book, there are four main skill sets:
* Knowledge of technology
* Writing ability
* Organizational skills
* Detective and people skills (pp. 22-30)
A list like that might help...