Technical Writing Training in Cochin

Course: Technical Writing

(Duration: 24 - 30Hrs)

Module 1: Introduction to Technical Writing

• What is Technical Writing?
• Importance and scope in industry
• Difference between technical and other forms of writing
• Roles and responsibilities of a technical writer

Module 2: Overview of Technical Document Types

Software Documentation:

• User Guide/Manual
• Installation guides
• Release Notes
• Whats New
• API Documentation

Module 3: Writing Fundamentals

• Principles of clear and concise writing
• Grammar and punctuation essentials
• Sentence structure and readability
• Tone, style, and voice in technical writing
• Audience analysis and purpose-driven writing

Module 4: Components of a Technical Document

• Creating a TOC
• Creating a LOF
• TOC vs Index
• Documentation Plan

Module 5: Writing Principles

• Basics of clear, concise, and structured writing
• Grammar essentials: Active vs. Passive voice, parallelism
• Common language pitfalls: Ambiguity, jargon, and filler words
• Introduction to tone, audience awareness, and readability
• Familiarity with Industry Style Guides (MSTP)

Module 6: Documentation Life Cycle

• Understanding the documentation workflow
• Requirement gathering and SME collaboration
• Audience analysis and requirement gathering
• Planning content structure and flow
• Content review and approval workflows

Module 7: Software Tools for Technical Writing

• Authoring tools: MS Word, Oxygen XML & FrameMaker (Overview only)
• Screenshot and visual tools: Snagit, MS Visio
• Basics of Git

Module 8: Document Planning & Design

• Content structuring with headings, lists, and tables
• Using screenshots, icons, and diagrams effectively
• Creating templates and maintaining consistency
• Managing Table of Contents, Indexes, and Figures

Module 9: Review, Feedback, and Editing

• checklist and peer reviews
• Working with SMEs and resolving comments
• Proofreading techniques and formatting standards
• Versioning and document control
• Final Edits and Quality Checks

Module 10: Publishing and Output Formats

• Formats: PDF, HTML, Online Help
• Basics of Cloud content and In-App Help
• Introduction to CMS
• Documentation maintenance and updates