We surveyed 2,192 technical writers to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical technical writer. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a technical writer?
Low
High
Working as a technical writer typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a technical writer?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a technical writer typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a technical writer?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically difficult to find a job as a technical writer. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for technical writers.
Do technical writers work full-time or part-time?
83% of technical writers work in full-time roles while 17% work part-time.
Is being a technical writer stressful?
Low
High
Technical writers tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a technical writer?
Low
High
Some level of organization is generally required to be a technical writer.
How competitive is the workplace for technical writers?
Low
High
Competition at work is not common for technical writers.
Does being a technical writer require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for technical writers.
Are technical writers allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Technical writers rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.
Do technical writers have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Technical writers tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.
Is being a technical writer physically demanding?
Low
High
Work as a technical writers is rarely physically demanding, making it a suitable option for those unable to perform physically strenuous tasks.
Are technical writers exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Technical writers tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a technical writer require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail is a vital skill for technical writers, as small mistakes can make or break one's ability to succeed in the career.
Does being a good technical writer require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a technical writer.