Effective Technical Writing

Practice several different forms of technical writing as you review and apply appropriate grammar and usage. The course includes tools for writing and reviews the skills participants have acquired or rediscovered. Practice assignments are given at the end of each online session. These assignments are the basis for discussion during the next online session.  All assignments submitted are reviewed and returned to the participants with suggestions for improvement.

Topics covered include:

• General Principles of Technical Writing – effective placement of information; organization; consideration of the target; phrasing for highest impact; and effective use of graphics
• Categories of Technical Writing – memos and e-mails; effective letter writing; reports of various types; shortened forms of writing, including overviews, abstracts, summaries, and introductions; construction and use of executive summaries; instructions and procedures; and scientific papers for publication
• The Writing Process – knowing your reader; using a template or example; collecting and filtering information; writing a first draft; using appropriate language and grammar; editing
• Abstracts, Summaries and Executive Summaries – structure and contents; concise phraseology; main points; language
• Graphics and Diagrams, Tables and Charts – use and contents; simplicity.
• Tools for Writing – examples, reference sheets, usage guides, templates, self-assessments, reference materials, self-help, and self-awareness

Technical professionals, managers, and researchers who want to enhance their professional success by writing effectively and persuasively.