Pauline Said:

Is a Technical Writing Certificate worth the money if I already have a B.A. in English?

We Answered:

A certificate (or degree) in tech writing might get your resume looked at over one without - it won't be the deal maker though. The better programs give you hands-on writing challenges with qualified critique to help develop your skill. The deal maker though is whether you can write or not.

Most HR people have come to learn that a BA in English is really a degree in literature and not in writing. While we expect that an English grad will write better than will a sociology grad, we don't accept it as an automatic qualification for a writer any longer. Writing samples (preferably 'real world') are what sets the writing applicant apart from the pack. If you want a job as a writer then you need to be able to show some real-world work samples.

Technical writing is specialized according to what you write about. We tend to expect a tech writer to have serious coursework/experience in the specialty area as well as in writing. This is the single biggest hurdle for prospective tech writers - it's great that you write well but if we want you to explain the natural environment of Cyclemys dentata and expect you'll be able to do it in terms even an HR guy can understand then you'd need some science background for that one. [this is the number one reason prospective writers can't find work - they only really know writing and we don't usually need anyone to 'write about writing'.]

A lot of tech writing is being contracted out these days. "Jobs" are really hard to come by except in IT (writing manuals) and in Engineering. Many tech writers are making their living as contract writers and have to go hunting for clients like anyone else that owns a business.

Those things in mind, the certificate helps in that it should make you a better tech writer and provide you with some samples to share. If you're doing contract work then it helps as an extra credential that might give you an edge over the next guy bidding the same job.

The real decision though is almost always based on your writing samples. You either have the skill and talent or you don't. If you do then you'll work - if not, no degree or credential is going to get you (or keep you) employed.

Jared Said:

Technical English Writing MCQs?

We Answered:

1-c, looking after
2-b, will have finished
3-c, had known
4-b, unless you speak more clearly
5-a, had finished

Nicole Said:

Do I need more than a B.A. in English to handle a technical writing position at an engineering firm?

We Answered:

I think you need a technical background and a flare in presentation.

Margie Said:

I have to create a midterm portfolio for my English class, which is technical writing class. Any suggestions?

We Answered:

if it is a technical writing class, you should not include anything that suggest otherwise... if it is a creative writing class, you should be as creative as the subject suggests....