Ateneo de Zamboaga University
Introducing
Technical Writing
Presented by: Albiso, Eddiemer U.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, you will be
able to:
Define technical writing and its scope
Identify key audiences and purposes
Explain and illustrate the 7 attributes (the
“7 C’s”)
Critically evaluate a sample document
for these attributes
What Is Technical Writing?
“Aims to help individuals perform workplace tasks, carry out a
series of operations, understand concepts or research, solve
problems, operate technology, or communicate in a professional
manner.”
What Is Technical Writing?
“Aims to help individuals perform workplace tasks, carry out a
series of operations, understand concepts or research, solve
problems, operate technology, or communicate in a professional
manner.”
Core:
Practical, task‑oriented
communication
What Is Technical Writing?
“Aims to help individuals perform workplace tasks, carry out a
series of operations, understand concepts or research, solve
problems, operate technology, or communicate in a professional
manner.”
Core: Common formats:
Practical, task‑oriented Textbooks & study guide
communication Operations manuals & SOPs
Company policies & memos
Illustrated how‑to articles
What Is Technical Writing?
Non‑fiction with a practical, specific purpose
Document design is integral to meaning
Targeted at particular readers
Why design matters: layout guides scanning, headings
cue structure
Audience vs. Purpose
Aspect Definition Examples
Audience Who reads, Technicians,
listens, or views managers, end
users
Provide specs,
Purpose Why the
record data,
document exists
persuade
Audience
Readers (print/web)
Viewers (slides, infographics)
Listeners (podcasts, narrated demos)
Tailoring strategies:
Simplify jargon for novices
Include glossaries or tooltips
Adjust tone: formal vs.
conversational
Purpose
Provide information (e.g., specs sheet)
Request information (e.g., data‑collection
form)
Record details (e.g., lab report)
Convince/Persuade (e.g., proposal)
Multi‑purpose docs: (e.g., white papers
inform & persuade)
01 Clear
02 Coherent
03 Concise
Introducing 04 Concrete
the 7 C’s 05 Correct
06 Complete
07 Courteous
Characteristics of Technical writing
1. Clear
- Straightforward, precise; one main idea per paragraph
Strategies:
Define or moderate jargon
Highlight key terms (bold, color)
Use topic sentences
Example:
❌“Subsequent to completion…”
✅“After you finish…”
Characteristics of Technical writing
2. Coherent
- Logical flow; ideas link seamlessly
Strategies:
Transitional words (however, next, therefore)
Parallel structure in lists
Consistent heading hierarchy
Example:
❌ Choppy: “Install the software. It takes time. Restart
your PC.”
✅ “Install the software, wait for the progress bar to
reach 100 %, then restart your PC.”
Characteristics of Technical writing
3. Concise
- No padding or redundancy; every word counts
Strategies:
Cut “be” verbs (is, are, was) when possible
Eliminate long prepositional strings
Replace vague words with strong verbs
Example:
❌“It is important to make an adjustment to the valve.”
✅“Adjust the valve.”
Characteristics of Technical writing
4. Concrete
- Specific, exact language; measurable descriptors
Strategies:
Use numbers, units, and precise terms
Provide examples or analogies for abstracts
Example:
❌“Add a small amount of solution.”
✅“Add 2 mL of solution.”
Characteristics of Technical writing
5. Correct
- Grammatically & ethically accurate; right document type
Strategies:
Proofread for punctuation, spelling, style
Verify all facts & figures
Match format to purpose (e.g., memo vs. user guide)
Checklist: Grammar ✓, Accuracy ✓, Format ✓
Characteristics of Technical writing
6. Complete
- All required information present; no loose ends
Strategies:
Cross‑check against specifications or user questions
Use checklists to ensure nothing’s missing
Example:
A procedure missing “Safety Precautions” isn’t complete
Characteristics of Technical writing
8. Courteous
- Respectful tone; reader‑friendly design
Strategies:
Use headings, bullets, white space for scanning
Address readers appropriately (you vs. we)
Avoid biased or offensive terms
Example:
❌“You must not mess up the wiring.”
✅“Ensure all wiring connections match the diagram.”
Common Pitfalls & Tips
Pitfall Tips
Overloading with Use a glossary or
jargon moderate terms
Long, unbroken text Break into bullets or
blocks subheadings
Passive voice overuse Convert to active
Skipping reader constructions
questions Pilot‑test with a sample
audience
Why It Matters?
Credibility & trust with readers
Efficiency & safety in real‑world tasks
Professionalism in workplace
communication
Reference:
Atkinson, D. & Raymond, S. (Ch.
“Introducing Technical Writing”)
Ateneo de Zamboanga University
THANK YOU!
