Online Class: ABCs of Technical Writing

no certificate
with CEU Certificate*
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11Lessons
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19Exams &
Assignments -
3,619Students
have taken this course -
9Hours
average time -
0.9CEUs
Course Description
Demystifying Technical Writing
In our technologically-driven world, the ability to convey complex concepts in a clear, concise, and accessible manner is invaluable. Have you ever grappled with assembling a piece of furniture, only to find relief in the user-friendly guide accompanying it? Or perhaps you've navigated a new software application with the aid of an intuitive online help system? These are tangible examples of technical writing, a discipline that bridges the gap between technical experts and the general public.
Course Overview:
Technical writing operates at the intersection of technology and communication. It's a discipline that involves crafting detailed, user-friendly content, whether it's for product manuals, online help systems, or instructional videos. As technology permeates every sector, from healthcare to finance, and from entertainment to agriculture, the demand for skilled technical writers has surged.
Whether you're a professional in a tech-centric industry, a writing enthusiast with a penchant for technology, or someone intrigued by the prospect of a career in technical writing, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to the multifaceted world of technical writing.
Course Highlights:
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What is Technical Writing? Delve into the core principles of technical writing, exploring its significance and wide-ranging applications.
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Projects for Technical Writers: A deep dive into the myriad projects that a technical writer might undertake, from creating user manuals to designing interactive tutorials.
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The Technical Writing Process: A step-by-step guide on structuring, drafting, and refining technical documents.
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How to Write Effectively: Techniques and strategies to ensure clarity, precision, and user-friendliness in your writing.
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Teaching an Alien to Drive: An engaging exercise that challenges you to explain a familiar concept to an unfamiliar audience, emphasizing the importance of perspective in technical writing.
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The First End User, You: The significance of self-review and experiencing the user's journey firsthand.
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Getting It Done: Discover how project management skills are integral to a technical writer's success.
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Words, Pictures, and Links: Explore the diverse formats in which technical content can be presented, from written documents to multimedia.
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Breaking into Technical Writing: Tips and guidance for those eager to launch a career in technical writing.
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The Tech Writer's Toolbox: A compilation of essential tools, software, and resources that can elevate the quality of your work.
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Staying in Touch: Emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and staying updated in this ever-evolving field.
Real-World Implications:
Consider the launch of a revolutionary health-monitoring app. While developers focus on coding and design, it's the technical writer's responsibility to ensure that users can seamlessly navigate the app, understand its features, and utilize it effectively. This might involve creating a detailed FAQ section, interactive video tutorials, or a comprehensive user guide.
Who is this Course For?
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Industry Professionals: Enhance your ability to communicate intricate technical details to clients, stakeholders, and non-technical colleagues.
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Aspiring Writers: Cultivate a specialized skill set that's in high demand across a spectrum of industries.
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Career Changers: Looking for a dynamic, rewarding career? Delve into technical writing and discover a world where technology meets creativity.
In conclusion, as we progress further into a technology-dominated era, the role of a technical writer becomes increasingly central. This course promises not only to introduce you to the foundational concepts of technical writing but also to equip you with practical skills and insights that are immediately applicable in the real world. Dive in, and unravel the art and science of technical writing!
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs

Course Lessons
Lesson 1. Mastering Technical Writing: Tools, Skills, and Career Paths
Lesson 1 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-Activity-9088.pdf
Complete Assignment: An Introduction
Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam
Lesson 2. Mastering Clarity: The Art of Modern Technical Writing
Lesson 2 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-WorkSheet-9089.pdf
Lesson discussions: Imagination Rules
Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam
Lesson 3. Mastering the Art of Technical Writing: A Deep Dive
Lesson 3 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-Activity-9090.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam
Lesson 4. Conveying Complexity Through Simplicity: A Guide to Technical Writing
Lesson 4 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-HomeWork-9091.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 4: How to Write Effectively
Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam
Lesson 5. Alien Driving 101
Lesson 5 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-HomeWork-9092.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 5: Teaching an Alien to Drive
Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam
Lesson 6. Quadrilateral Basics
Lesson 6 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-Activity-9093.pdf
Lesson discussions: What Type of Learner are You?
Assessment: Lesson 6: The First End User: You
Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam
Lesson 7. Mastering Time and Team in Technical Writing
Lesson 7 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-WorkSheet-9094.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 7: Getting It Done: Project Management and the Technical Writer
Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam
Lesson 8. From Manuals to Multimedia: The Expanding Role of Technical Writers
Lesson 8 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-Activity-9095.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 8: Words, Pictures, and Links: The Growing Array of Deliverable Formats
Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam
Lesson 9. Bridging Complexity and Clarity: The Essence of Technical Writing
Lesson 9 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-Downloadable-9096.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 9: Breaking into Technical Writing
Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam
Lesson 10. Tech-Savvy Communication: The Art and Tools of Technical Writing
Lesson 10 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-Downloadable-9097.pdf
Lesson discussions: Language Basics
Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam
Lesson 11. Exploring the Future of Technical Writing: Embracing Interactivity in a Digital Age
Lesson 11 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-HomeWork-9098.pdf
Lesson discussions: How would you rate this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course)
Assessment: Technical Writing - Final Exam
Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively translate complex technical information into user-friendly documentation across various platforms and media.
- Identify the key roles and responsibilities of a technical writer in diverse organizational settings and industries.
- Define the evolving roles of technical writers across different industries by analyzing their contributions to software, hardware documentation, and user engagement.
- Demonstrate the significance of technical documentation by creating concise and informative user guides for digital and hardware platforms that enhance user experience.
- Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with Subject Matter Experts and other users to enhance the accuracy and comprehensibility of technical documentation.
- Identify and distinguish between different audiences to create tailored technical content that effectively meets varying user needs and skill levels.
- Define the principles of effective technical writing by illustrating how clarity and simplicity enhance understanding of complex topics.
- Demonstrate the ability to utilize visual aids and style manuals to improve technical documentation quality, ensuring accurate and engaging communication.
- Define the process of starting a terrestrial vehicle by turning the ignition key and recognizing the engine's response.
- Identify and troubleshoot common ignition-related challenges to ensure successful vehicle operation on Earth.
- Define the essential skills of a technical writer by identifying effective documentation strategies and techniques through real-world examples.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct usability testing and implement improvements based on user feedback to enhance documentation clarity and user experience.
- Define and implement a strategic timetable for a comprehensive project plan that accurately reflects all phases of the technical documentation process.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Additional Course Information

- Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
- Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
- Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
- View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
- Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Choose Your Subscription Plan
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Includes CEUs | X |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificate & CEUs
This course only
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 12 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 24 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Student Testimonials
- "Great course and nice instruction." -- David M.
- "The lessons were very clear and helpful." -- Julianna Z.
- "The instructor was so helpful." -- Anchal N.
- "I really enjoyed working with the instructor. I found the writing assignments most helpful. Practicing specific writing skills is the best way to learn technical writing." -- Paul S.
- "Excellent!" -- Jeannine S.
- "It was a good overview, which is exactly what I was looking for. I enjoyed your classes. Thank you." -- Beth B.
- "Everything was great." -- Nancy M.
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