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RE: Relating to: Results of the Work Habits Survey
Subject:RE: Relating to: Results of the Work Habits Survey From:"Joe Malin" <jmalin -at- tuvox -dot- com> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Thu, 7 Jul 2005 11:17:10 -0700
If you're studying TW at a university, ask your teachers. You weren't
clear on your manager's background or that of your fellow staffers, but
I wouldn't rely on them unless they have a work background in TW.
I too am a lone writer. I have all my education behind me, plus 3 years
experience at another company, and I *still* have questions I can't
answer. That's why I'm subscribed to this list as well as the JavaHelp
and HATT lists.
If you need specialized training for the tools you're using, and you're
not getting it from your university, then ask your manager for it.
Asking shows initiative and a desire to learn, but he or she may say no
anyway. If the money isn't available, it isn't available.
Most writers don't have all the answers. As you get more experience,
you'll at least learn where to find them out. Most of the time that I do
something *wrong* it's because I didn't do enough research first. Don't
be afraid to ask questions, even if you think you should know the
answer.
As for standards, first find out what your company standards are. If
your company doesn't have any, then go ahead and set your own. Acquire
the style guides that are available for your industry. I work in Windows
software, so I have the MS Manual of Style as well as others out there.
My ultimate authority for the basics of grammar and style is Chicago
(15th) and Merriam-Webster's Collegiate 11th for spelling. I haven't
found any "standards" for printed documentation formats and layouts
(yet).
Joe
Joe Malin
Technical Writer
(408)625-1623
jmalin -at- tuvox -dot- com
www.tuvox.com
The views expressed in this document are those of the sender, and do not
necessarily reflect those of TuVox, Inc.
-----Original Message-----
From: bounce-techwr-l-216553 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
[mailto:bounce-techwr-l-216553 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of A.H.
Sent: Thursday, July 07, 2005 10:36 AM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: Relating to: Results of the Work Habits Survey
Where can I get info on standards? Can I talk to my boss about training
or ask staffers to offer their support?
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