10 Best Technical Writer Courses, Classes & Certifications Online To Take In 2023
Dive into the rapidly growing tech industry as a top-notch technical writer with our expertly curated list of the 10 best online courses, classes, and certifications available in 2023, designed to sharpen your skills and enhance your career prospects in software documentation, API writing, and technical report creation.
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Are you looking to enhance your skills and boost your career in the field of technical writing? We've got you covered! We've thoroughly researched 25 popular technical writer courses from different providers, with a whopping 222,623 enrolled students who left 29,552 ratings and reviews. Our goal? To help you find the perfect course to suit your needs, preferences, and career goals.
After evaluating these courses based on rating, reviews, enrollments, learner feedback, valuable and engaging content, comprehensive curriculum, release date, and affordability, we've handpicked the top 10 courses, combining our expertise with the experiences of other learners. So, without further ado, let us embark on this journey of learning and growth, ensuring your success as a technical writer through our curated list of courses that cater to various technical writing niches.
As a technical writer, you understand the importance of presenting information in a way that engages and retains the interest of your audience. That's where the power of storytelling comes into play. This course, led by experts Poornima Vijayashanker and Karen Catlin, offers valuable insights on using storytelling to make technical information more accessible and enjoyable for your audience. Through the provided techniques, you can elevate your public speaking skills and create captivating presentations that leave a lasting impression.
Throughout the course, you will examine real-world examples and scenarios that showcase the effectiveness of storytelling in presenting complex material. Learning how to identify and build the perfect story to suit your presentation is a crucial component, and this course ensures that you understand the nuances of utilizing storytelling techniques. By the end of the course, you will have the confidence and knowledge to present technical information with dynamic and unforgettable stories, ultimately setting you apart as an expert in your field.
User review:
Very relatable, no matter the technical background I have already started thinking how I would engage my audience in my field with a story! Thank you![1]... Read More
Antigoni Katsikoudi
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This course excels at teaching how to communicate complex ideas through storytelling, making technical information more accessible and engaging for audiences. It helps learners identify the right story, establish credibility, and test its effectiveness in capturing attention.
This comprehensive course is designed to equip aspiring technical writers with the necessary skills and knowledge required to produce effective quickstart guides. These guides are crucial in providing users with concise, easily accessible information to help them start using a product or software with minimal challenges. The course, instructed by the experienced writing professional Leslie O'Flahavan, offers valuable insights into the components and best writing practices to create a well-structured quickstart guide that efficiently addresses users' questions and concerns.
Throughout the course, students will learn how to develop quickstart guides based on either user manuals or customer feedback, ensuring that the content is relevant and useful. Leslie also demonstrates the importance of clear communication by employing plain language and precise headings to aid user comprehension. In addition, the course highlights the significance of collaborating with subject matter experts and users to obtain feedback, which further ensures that the guide produced is accurate, informative, and helpful for its intended audience. Consequently, this course is a valuable resource for technical writers who strive to create quickstart guides that meet both users' expectations and industry standards.
Best for:
This course is ideal for those who want to improve their ability to create clear and engaging quickstart guides for products or software. It teaches essential components, writing practices, and strategic approaches while emphasizing plain language and collaboration with subject matter experts.
This comprehensive course on business writing and technical writing offers a unique learning experience tailored for both seasoned and novice writers in the field. Developed by Dan Graham, "The Writing System" is designed to help individuals craft clear, effective, and impactful communications in various formats, including technical software documents, business reports, PowerPoint presentations, and emails. The course provides a systematic approach to writing, featuring 12 steps and nearly 60 practical techniques, ranging from initial writing analysis to final copy, to create successful documents every time. Along with tutorials and exercises, special instructions are also provided for professionals with English as a second language.
The program includes 38 video modules and supplementary materials that offer in-depth coverage on topics like analyzing purpose and audience, drafting and revising content, editing for coherence and readability, and much more. Expert guidance from the instructor and support team is available for the lifetime of the course, ensuring that participants have access to personalized assistance as they hone their writing skills. With a strong focus on practical application and a flexible learning format, this course equips learners with the essential tools and strategies to excel in the world of business and technical writing.
User review:
I strongly recommend it. The presenter may stumble in places and contradict one point from another in a couple of details, but I'm impressed. An engineer correctly using actual experimental psychology findings to organize readable documents, and being entertaining while doing it. I studied Cognitive Science, did my Master's Thesis on the topic, have a long-running pattern&software project on organizing documents, and I still learned a good deal from the course. Sections 12 and 13 have very poor sound. The tips for emails consistently stalls in the middle which can be solved by clicking in the timebar slightly after that point. [2]... Read More
Radu Luchianov
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This course is ideal for those looking to develop clear, effective, and impactful communications in formats such as technical documents, business reports, and emails, as well as for professionals with English as a second language. It offers a systematic approach, featuring 12 steps and nearly 60 practical techniques, along with expert guidance and support for the lifetime of the course.
This comprehensive course is designed to teach technical writers the essential skills needed to effectively document REST APIs. Building on the foundation laid in the preceding course on JSON and XML documentation, this course aims to equip participants with a deeper understanding of REST APIs and how to accurately convey their functionality to developers. Participants will not only gain valuable insights into the rapidly growing field of API documentation but also be able to leverage this knowledge for exciting, high-paying positions in cutting-edge technology development.
Throughout the course, participants will explore the various components of REST APIs, with a particular emphasis on request and response structures. With targeted video lectures, hands-on exercises, and quizzes, learners can expect to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge of the subject matter. Moreover, additional resources such as PowerPoint presentations and a Microsoft Word document template for REST reference materials will further enable technical writers to excel in documenting REST APIs. This course is ideal for writers with a foundational understanding of JSON and XML, seeking to advance their expertise and thrive in the field of API documentation.
User review:
Do not skip the exercises or just skim the answer keys. The claim that this course "takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete" is not an overstatement if you're really engaging with the material.
REST is presented bit-by-bit with documentation exercises for each bit that frequently involve the challenge of inferring incomplete information or justifying a close judgement call (just as you would on the job).
The final exercise is somewhat of a capstone, where you are given an API spec like a developer might hand you, from which you must generate an entire reference doc. That might seem a daunting task, but if you've been putting in the work it becomes a simple matter of just stitching it all together. [3]... Read More
xBDL
Best for:
This course is excellent for those looking to master the essential skills needed to effectively document REST APIs, building on existing knowledge of JSON and XML documentation, and providing in-depth understanding for conveying API functionality to developers.
If you're looking to elevate your skills as a technical writer in the software industry, this comprehensive course is designed to teach you a proven strategy for producing effective and clear software documentation using GitHub wiki based on 12 main principles of technical writing. By the end of this course, you'll be able to perform the necessary steps to start writing documentation, explain the process of preparing, organizing and delivering software documentation, create instructional images and graphics using Canva, and learn how to create software documentation in a GitHub wiki following the instructor's templates for writing in Markdown. You'll also gain valuable insights into user research, information architecture and its importance in software documentation, and even have the chance to create your own documentation project.
CNBC cited this course in the article "The 20 hottest job skills companies are looking for right now," indicative of the practical value it offers its students. Over the years, the core activities of technical writing professionals have constantly evolved to encompass writing skills, design and graphics, video creation, multimedia, metadata, and software development. These assets combined can be described as user assistance. The instructor, Jordan Stanchev, a User Assistance Development Architect, has personally trained hundreds of people in various settings, and the practical nature of this course will help you develop the work samples you need to apply as a technical writer in a software development company. Enroll now to begin your journey toward mastering the art of software documentation.
User review:
I started this course with the idea of researching a possible new career path. Jordan Stanchev does an amazing job of breaking down complicated guidelines and systems of rules into easily digestible pieces. The information feels like common sense, but anyone who has run into real-world examples of bad technical writing can tell you, it isn't! This course gave me a good foundation to build on, the proper tools to use, and clear ideas of the topics I will need to study next if I want to continue on this path. I found it well worth the investment! [4]... Read More
Misty Newton
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This course is ideal for individuals aiming to improve their technical writing skills in the software industry, specifically in creating effective and clear software documentation using GitHub wiki. It covers user research, information architecture, graphics and image creation, and offers a practical approach towards building a professional documentation project.
The "Professional Technical Writing: Advance Your Writing Skills" course equips aspiring technical writers with the principles and techniques of technical writing to create their first technical document. The course covers a wide range of topics, including technical writing and editing techniques, document templates, indexing, use of tables, images, and flowcharts. The curriculum gives students an opportunity to learn from a pro writer with experience in the Fortune 100 industry since 1998, equipping them with valuable knowledge in a field known for providing stable and well-paying jobs.
Not only is this course ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in technical writing, it is also suitable for fiction writers, web content writers, engineers, scientists, developers, project and product managers, journalists, librarians, teachers, and military personnel, among others. The course is highly comprehensive and provides 107 lectures, 17 hours of video, numerous PDF documents, complimentary ebooks, and supplementary resources that will guide students in honing their technical writing skills. With no deadlines, a final assignment reviewed by the instructor, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, this course is a great investment for those looking to enhance their writing and documentation skills for any professional environment.
User review:
This course far exceeded my expectations! The instructor was very clear, has a wealth of practical experience, and offered many downloadable PDF files that I refer to frequently.
I took this course as a refresher and to add to existing knowledge. I wrote many technical software documents over the years as part of non-writer jobs. I learned so much that I did not know!
I offer a word of caution to future students taking this course. Be careful with the pace you set for yourself. This course is jam-packed with so much information that it can be overwhelming if you attempt to fast-track it as I did. I already made the decision to become a full-time technical writer and was in between jobs so wanted to complete as soon as possible. It is a good idea to give yourself time in between sections to fully absorb all of the content.
I highly recommend this course for anyone wanting to learn professional technical writing and editing or to enhance existing skills. I have taken other courses by this instructor and loved them all! Keep up the great work Dr. Akinci! [5]... Read More
Janett Nixon
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This course is ideal for those who seek to advance their technical writing skills to a professional level, covering topics like writing and editing techniques, document templates, and use of tables, images, and flowcharts. It caters to a wide range of professionals, including fiction writers, web content writers, engineers, scientists, developers, project managers, product managers, journalists, librarians, teachers, and military personnel.
In today's professional landscape, conveying complex ideas and technical concepts in clear, concise, and easily digestible written reports is a critical skill for success. This interactive and practical course, taught by an experienced psychologist, university lecturer, and author, tackles this challenge head-on by providing a comprehensive overview of the essential elements of effective technical report writing, and helping participants develop the writing skills necessary to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences.
Throughout the 17-session course, learners will explore and engage with a wealth of resources, including book chapters, quizzes, forms, activities, links, and PowerPoint slides, all aimed at honing their technical writing abilities. By the end of the course, participants will have a deep understanding of the importance of embracing technical writing skills in a professional context, as well as the knowledge to develop content that is pitched at the appropriate level for the intended reader, adhering to proper formatting, linguistic and grammatical standards, and employing the use of appropriate graphics. Ultimately, learners will walk away equipped to produce effective professional and technical reports that help drive organizational success.
User review:
This course strikes a good balance on level of detail. There's enough explanation and enough aspects covered to hit the important points, without getting bogged down or tedious. That said, I did view most of it at 1.75X speed.
A few minor things prevented it from being 5 stars:
- Presenter read all of their content from the screen
- Some segments had painful screen glare off presenter's glasses
- A lot of focus on physical pages, which doesn't seem that relevant as of 2020 when it was last updated
In the end I believe it will suffice for training my team in this important topic. I would recommend it to other managers. [6]... Read More
Brian Keefer
Best for:
This course is ideal for anyone looking to improve their technical writing skills, specifically focusing on producing effective professional and technical reports that cater to their intended audiences.
In today's technology-driven world, many professionals often encounter complex products and processes that leave them perplexed. To make such technology easier to understand, technical writing comes to the rescue, explaining perplexing concepts in a clear, concise, and easy-to-understand manner. This course, designed for engineers, product managers, and other technology professionals, aims to improve their technical writing skills, making it an excellent choice for those considering a career as a technical writer as well.
The course focuses on teaching the fundamentals of technical writing, including defining what it is and what it is not. Students will learn how to create structured technical writing documents, ensure their quality, and acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of technical writing. So, if you're looking to take your first steps as a technical writer, this course is your key to unlocking a new and exciting career path.
Best for:
This course is ideal for professionals who want to improve their technical writing skills and explore a career as a technical writer, covering fundamentals such as defining technical writing, creating structured documents, ensuring quality, and acquiring necessary knowledge to excel in the field.
As a technical writer, it is crucial to have a strong foundation in the documentation process for software projects. The course focuses on the fundamentals of writing effective software documentation, guiding students through various types of documentation, including requirements, architecture/design, code, test plans, and end-user manuals. This comprehensive curriculum provides beneficial tips and best practices to ensure efficiency and clarity in documentation.
By taking this course, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the significance of documentation in the software industry and the intricacies of the writing process. The course places emphasis on developing strong technical writing skills that will enable students to communicate effectively in various software project scenarios. Upon completion of this course, students will have a solid understanding of technical writing and the ability to produce clear, precise, and relevant documentation for their software projects.
Best for:
This course excels at teaching students how to create effective technical documentation for software projects, covering various types such as requirements, architecture/design, code, test plans, and end-user manuals. It also emphasizes strong communication skills to ensure clarity and relevance in documentation.
Becoming an effective technical writer involves mastering a variety of skills, and this course, Writing Better Technical Reports, aims to equip you with the tools you need to succeed in this field. The course covers crucial aspects of technical report writing, from sentence construction to document organization, while emphasizing the importance of clear, concise language, proper treatment of specialized terminology, and stylistic awareness. Throughout the course, you will learn about common writing pitfalls and how to avoid them, as well as how to adopt a reader-centered approach to enhance the reception and impact of your reports.
In addition to discussing the fundamental principles of structure and style, the course delves into best practices related to electronic documents and provides guidance on seamlessly connecting paragraphs through the use of transitions. It also offers valuable advice on how to avoid confusing or vague references, eliminate unnecessary or repetitive wording, and sharpen your overall writing ability. By the end of this comprehensive course, you will have a strong foundation in effective technical report writing, allowing you to create documents that are not only informative and accurate, but also engaging and easy to read.
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This course is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their technical writing skills, specifically in the area of crafting well-structured and engaging technical reports. It empowers learners to create informative, accurate, and reader-friendly documents by addressing common writing pitfalls, emphasizing clarity and concision, and providing guidance on electronic document best practices.
Choosing the best technical writer course can be a daunting task, but a comprehensive approach can help in making an informed decision. In order to select the most suitable course for your needs, it's important to consider your specific goals and intentions. This may include improving your technical writing skills, learning how to write effective software documentation, gaining a better understanding of API technical writing, or advancing to a professional level. You may also want to focus on different aspects of technical writing such as presenting technical information effectively through stories, writing quick start guides, or producing technical reports.
When evaluating potential courses, there are several key factors to look for. First, ensure that the course content aligns with your goals and covers the necessary topics in depth. You can do this by reviewing the course syllabus or outline. Next, consider the qualifications and expertise of the course instructors. Look for experienced technical writers or industry professionals who have a strong track record for teaching or mentoring. Additionally, it's important to consider the flexibility and format of the course, as online or on-demand courses can be beneficial for those with busy schedules or a preference for self-paced learning.
Consider your specific goals and intentions.
Ensure the course content aligns with your goals and covers the necessary topics in depth.
Review the qualifications and expertise of the course instructors.
Consider the flexibility and format of the course, including online or on-demand options.
Lastly, make sure to read reviews and testimonials from past students to gain insight into the effectiveness and quality of the course. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can make a well-informed decision and feel confident that you're embarking on the right path to enhance your technical writing skills and achieve your desired goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the plethora of courses available ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you're looking to improve your technical writing skills, learn how to write software documentation, or write more engaging technical reports. These courses are designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels and are suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals.
Investing your time and effort in any of these technical writing courses will not only enhance your writing skills but also provide valuable certification and knowledge that can help you excel in your career. Regardless of which course you choose, the end goal is to make you an accomplished technical writer with a strong foundation in conveying complex technical information effectively and engagingly. So, take the opportunity and enrich your writing with one of these expert-recommended courses.
How much does a technical writer course cost?
The cost of a technical writer course varies depending on the platform and the specific course. Prices can range from free trials to monthly or annual subscriptions, such as $19.99/m annually for LinkedIn Learning or $165 per year for Skillshare. Individual courses on platforms like Udemy can cost anywhere between $64.99 and $199.99.
How long do technical writer courses take?
The duration of technical writer courses also varies depending on the course and the platform. They can range from short, under an hour sessions (such as 31m or 58m on LinkedIn Learning) to more comprehensive, multiple-hour courses (such as 9h 39m or 16h 49m on Udemy). It ultimately depends on the course material and the learner's pace.
Which online platform is best for learning technical writing?
The best online platform for learning technical writing depends on your individual needs, budget, and learning preferences. Some popular platforms include LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, Skillshare, and Pluralsight. It is recommended to explore the course content and reviews on each platform to determine which one best fits your learning goals and needs.
