What is Technical Writing? A Beginner’s Introduction - Part 1

Have you ever tried using a new phone, and you weren’t quite sure how to set it up? But then you found a simple guide that walked you through it, step-by-step, and suddenly everything made sense? That guide is an example of technical writing.

But first, let’s get one thing straight.

Technical writing is the kind of writing that helps people understand how something works or how to do something. It takes complex, confusing stuff and turns it into clear, simple instructions.

Think of technical writing as the friendly voice that says,

“Hey! I know this looks hard, but here’s how to do it. Step 1, Step 2, done!”

Definition Time

Technical writing is writing that explains how things work clearly, simply, and accurately. It turns complex ideas into content anyone can understand and use.

Think of it as explaining tech stuff to your smart-but-non-techie friend. Or your grandma. Or a five-year-old. (Or, if you're me, explaining why your toaster has a WiFi button.)

Real-Life Examples of Technical Writing

It’s all around you like WiFi signals and unpaid subscriptions. Some examples include:

• User manuals (how to assemble IKEA furniture without crying)

• Product documentation (guides for apps, websites, and gadgets)

• API docs (for developers, like the cooking instructions for code)

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in companies

• FAQs, help centers, error messages, and even chatbot scripts!

Why Does It Matter?

Have you ever...

• Fixed something because you followed clear instructions?

• Avoided a mistake thanks to a warning label?

• Googled “how to reset my router” and found a step-by-step guide?

If yes, a technical writer somewhere made your life easier.

Good tech writing saves time, prevents errors, reduces frustration, and makes products usable.

Bad tech writing? That makes users uninstall apps, return gadgets, or worst of all, call customer support.

Explaining to a 5-Year-Old (Because Why Not?)

Let’s pretend you're a kid. You just got a cool LEGO spaceship. Technical writing is like someone saying:

“Okay, take the blue block and snap it onto the yellow one like this. Great! Now add the little wings.”

Without that voice, you’d probably just make a LEGO pizza.

Do You Have to Be a Programmer or Engineer to Be a Tech Writer?

Nope! You need curiosity, empathy, writing skills, and a big heart for problem-solving. The tech can be learned, one Google search and coffee at a time.

Many great tech writers come from backgrounds in:

• Journalism

• Teaching

• Literature

• Customer Support

• Or just being that one person in the group who explains stuff well!

If you can ask questions like:

"How does this work?" and "Would my mom understand this?" You’re already halfway there.

Bonus: Signs You Might Be a Natural Tech Writer

• You love making step-by-step lists

• You hate vague instructions

• You enjoy breaking big ideas into smaller parts

• You're that friend who says, “Wait, let me show you a better way to do it.”

• You secretly enjoy manuals (even if you won’t admit it in public)

What’s Coming Next?

In the next part of this series, we’ll explore the different types of technical documentation (spoiler: it’s not just boring manuals!). We’ll look at fun examples, unusual use cases, and maybe even explain how a banana works. (Okay, not really, but I could.)

In Summary

• Technical writing = explaining things clearly

• It helps people use tools, software, and systems without pulling their hair out

• You don’t need to be a tech wizard, just a curious, clear communicator

• Anyone can learn it, including you

So if you’ve ever explained something to a friend and they said, “Ohhh, now I get it!” congratulations. You're already a technical writer at heart.

Your Turn

• Think of one tool or app you love using. Now ask yourself:

• Would someone else understand it without a guide?

• If not… maybe you could write one?

Want to dive deeper into the world of freelance technical writing? Grab a copy of my ebook: Freelance Technical Writing: A Career Guide for Beginners (Ebook)

It’s packed with tips to help you land your first client, build a portfolio, and launch your career confidently.