RE: How much experience for API Writing?

["Andrew Dugas" <dugas -at- intalio -dot- com>]

In my market place, this is a no brainer. Take the Java class. It's in
demand as a skill and will build nicely from your C++ studies.

When I (like many other TWs) was laid off last summer, most of the job
openings were for Java API documentation. Judging by how long they took to
fill, I'd say that that kind of talent was scarce. Scarcity creates demand,
demand increases price...

Like I said, no brainer!

I'm working towards API doc myself. Pay depends on where you are and the
skill level in the talent pool. Around these SF Bay Area parts, I'd say it
pays 15 - 30% higher than your mid-level TW job that requires no real
special knowledge. Caveat: I could be off since it has been a while since I
last checked out the job market.

As to programming skill, you should skilled at reading and dissecting the
code, but not necessarily writing it. You don't have to write like Hemingway
to understand what makes a good novel work.

Good luck. It sounds like you are on the right track.

-----Original Message-----
From: bounce-techwr-l-88324 -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com
[mailto:bounce-techwr-l-88324 -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com]On Behalf Of Anonymous
Sent: Friday, March 08, 2002 5:25 AM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: FWD: How much experience for API Writing?



Forwarded anonymously on request. Please reply to the
list if you want the original poster to see your message. EJR
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

Hi all,

I have a couple of questions about API writing. Basically, I'm wondering how
much programming knowledge you need before you're qualified for this type of
work. Currently, I'm taking a C++ class. I'm also trying to decide what
class I'm going to take over the summer. The second C++ isn't offered, so
it's a choice between Database or Java programming. Any thoughts? Both
classes sound appealing, but I can only take one. I would like to choose the
class that will give me an edge when I start looking for API work. (as soon
as possible!)

Also, I would appreciate input the general pay rate for this type of
writing, what type of structure is used in the documents, and anything else
you feel like adding. (Hey, if I'm gonna ask, I'm gonna ask BIG! :) But
mostly, I'm interested in how much programming skill a API writer needs. Is
it enough to read code and know the keywords or do I need an in-depth
knowledge of the programming language? I don't mind either way. I just want
to be prepared.

Thanks



^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Check it out! Get some cool freebies when you buy RoboHelp! You'll receive
SnagIt screen capture software and a 10% discount voucher for RoboHelp
Consulting. This special offers expires March 29, 2002.
www.ehelp.com/techwr

Have you looked at the new content on TECHWR-L lately?
See http://www.raycomm.com/techwhirl/ and check it out.

---
You are currently subscribed to techwr-l as: archive -at- raycomm -dot- com
To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-techwr-l-obscured -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com
Send administrative questions to ejray -at- raycomm -dot- com -dot-  Visit 
http://www.raycomm.com/techwhirl/ for more resources and info.