Re: SUB: ADVICE FOR BEGINNING TECH WRITER

[Shannon L Downs <sl_downs -at- CCMAIL -dot- PNL -dot- GOV>]

         Jamie

         I'm glad to hear that you already have some background in
         tech writing.  You have probably already noticed some major
         differences between tech writing and journalism.  I also have
         a background in journalism and it was quite a jolt to learn
         that a good portion of what I was taught as a journalist
         doesn't apply to tech writing.

         The first thing I had to do was learn to put my AP style
         guide on a shelf, and leave it there!  Then I had to revamp
         my way of looking at documents.

         I believe that no matter how many classes you take on a
         subject, on-the-job training will teach you more in a week
         than you can learn in a year at school.  Each company has
         its own style and publishing process.  Although some may be
         similar, no two are exactly alike.

         Check with some of the larger corporations for entry-level
         positions.  Some have editorial assistant or publications
         assistant positions that can provide you with the training
         you need to move up the ladder.  I started out as a
         publications assistant a little over a year ago and am now
         looking at a position as an editor within the next six to
         nine months.  I know the publications and clearance
         procedures inside and out, as well as all of the different
         formats used by various centers in the company.

         As far as books that might be helpful.  I have a collection
         of reference books that ranges from a technical dictionary to
         Hodge's Harbrace College Handbook.  Other than that, I use
         our company's style and publishing manual on a regular basis.

         Good Luck!

         Shannon

         P.S.  You're not alone, I'm also new to this list!