technical writing vs essay ppt

Technical Writing vs. Essay Writing: Differences & Similarities

Technical writing and essay writing are critical and valuable skills to have in any career, but they can be very different. If you are a writer who wants to learn more about technical writing and essay writing, then you have come to the right place.

In contrast, an essay is a piece of writing that discusses an issue or topic, including a research paper, a business proposal, a term paper, or a personal essay. Technical writing is different from essay writing, but there are some similarities that you should be aware of before you start.

Also read: How to Create a Strong Brand Identity Through Writing

📖 Table of Contents

What is Technical Writing?

Technical writing includes all forms that require specialized vocabulary and specialized language to convey information. The writer must also understand the subject to write about it.

What is Essay Writing?

Essay writing is a widespread type of writing. It is usually used to describe or explain a particular topic. The main idea of an essay is to discuss a topic and give your opinion. An essay is different from a story because it usually has more than one point. Essays are often used to write about what people believe and why they believe it.

You may think that essay writing is not a hard thing to do, but there are many things you need to know before you start writing your essay. If you are unsure how to start your essay, You can take essay help from online sites, and it is always advised to learn these skills at the earliest possible time. They can help you write an essay that is good and original.

Argumentative: This type of essay is all about convincing your reader. Persuasive: This type of essay is all about persuading your reader. Narrative: This type of essay is all about telling a story. Explanation: This type of essay is all about explaining a concept. Description: This type of essay is all about describing something.

Technical Writing vs Essay Writing: The Differences

In technical writing, you’re writing about a topic or field of study that you are already familiar with. You’re writing about a topic you’ve studied before, and you’re writing about a topic you’ve written about in the past.

Technical Writing vs Essay Writing: The Similarities

Both of them require the same time and effort. Both technical writing and essay writing are time-consuming processes. This is because the skills are based on facts and figures. Hence, the only thing that matters is to write the content correctly.

Both technical writing and essay writing must be presented in different mediums.

Both technical writing and essay writing focus on a particular subject; however, technical writing requires a more in-depth understanding, whereas essay writing requires a more broad understanding. Both these skills require a considerable amount of time and effort.

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Technical Writing vs. Essay Writing

Major variations of writing in both styles, beyond common writing distinctions, key challenges, how is technical writing different from writing an essay.

• Read in 07 mins
• 14-Nov-2023

When we think of writing, we often connect it with articles, blogs or essays. But do you know there are many different styles and formats to consider while writing content? The two most popular writing types we are going to discuss here are technical writing and essay writing. Both of the styles involve the use of words and language to communicate ideas and information to a specific audience.

However, there are some key differences between the two styles that set them totally apart. Understanding these differences can help identify which approach is best suited for your particular needs. Through this article, we will explore how technical writing is different from writing an essay, their characteristics, as well as tips on how to excel in each style.

Technical writing and essay writing are two interesting styles of writing that have their unique characteristics and purposes for a diverse audience. So, whether you're a student working on an academic paper or a professional looking to communicate complex ideas, read on to discover the right way!

Technical writing focuses on providing clear and straightforward informative content to help readers understand complicated concepts. At the same time, essay writing aims to convince and engage readers with well-developed arguments and analysis. Understanding the difference between the two styles can help you figure out which approach is right for you.

For example , if you were writing a technical manual on how to assemble a computer, you would use technical writing to provide step-by-step instructions with clear diagrams and explanations. On the other hand, if you were writing an essay on the benefits of renewable energy, you would use essay writing to present compelling arguments supported by evidence and expert opinions.

Technical writing is highly objective and focuses on practicality and efficiency, aiming to convey information in a concise and precise manner. It is often used in fields such as engineering, technology, and science. Essay writing is more subjective and allows for the expression of personal opinions and interpretations. It is commonly employed in academic settings and aims to persuade and engage readers through effective rhetoric and logical reasoning.

Understanding the appropriate style for your purpose can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your writing and ensure that your intended message reaches and resonates with your target audience.

Four major variations of writing can be found in both technical and essay writing styles.

Formality and Tone

• Technical Writing: The language in this style is straightforward and specific. It resembles a set of instructions for assembling structured content, avoiding unnecessary details, and focusing on clarity.
• Essay Composition: Now consider it as a letter to a friend. It's informal, like a casual chat. The tone can be personal, expressing emotions and opinions freely. An essay weaves a narrative, allowing the writer's voice to shine through.

Use of Jargon

• Technical Writing: It often includes industry-specific terms and jargon. The goal is to communicate efficiently within a particular field, assuming a level of knowledge among the readers.
• Essay Composition: Essays generally avoid excessive jargon, opting for easy and accessible language. The emphasis is on connecting with a broader audience, making the content relatable and engaging.

Structural Framework

• Technical Writing: Technical documents follow a structured and logical format, just like maps. Whether it's a manual or a report, the information is organized systematically, allowing readers to navigate with ease.
• Essay Composition: Essays have a more flexible structure. While they may have an introduction, body, and conclusion, the content flows naturally, allowing for creativity and exploration of ideas.

Audience Considerations

• Technical Writing: Technical writing is tailored to a specific audience with a particular knowledge base. It assumes the readers have a certain level of expertise in the subject matter.
• Essay Composition: Essays adapt to various readerships, considering a broader spectrum of backgrounds and interests. The goal is to engage and resonate with a diverse group of readers.

Technical writing and essay writing both require solid skills in writing along with the ability to communicate information effectively. Let us understand some unexplored distinctions that can help writers tailor their approach and achieve their intended goals.

Intent of Communication

• Technical writing mainly serves a practical purpose. It aims to express information, focusing on delivering instructions or presenting facts. The focus here is on providing guidance or documentation for a specific task or process.
• Essay writing takes a more exploratory route. Essays are a platform for expressing ideas, opinions, and emotions. They invite readers to delve into the writer's thoughts, often without a predetermined practical outcome.

Emotional Engagement

• Technical writing is more objective and factual. The major goal is the transmission of information with minimal emotional engagement or personal biases.
• Essay writing encourages emotional connection. Essays often involve personal reflections, storytelling, or persuasive elements that light up emotions and relate with the reader on a more personal level.

Flexibility in Structure

• Technical writing follows a structured and standardized format. Whether it's a manual or a report, our technical writing services follow a predetermined framework to ensure clarity and consistency.
• Essay writing embraces a more flexible structure. It allows for creativity in the organization, enabling writers to experiment with different formats to suit the content and convey ideas effectively.

Language Complexity

• Technical writing prioritizes clarity over literary flair. The language used is straightforward, avoiding unnecessary complexity. The focus is on delivering information comprehensively to a specific audience.
• Essay writing celebrates the beauty of language. Essays often employ a more varied and expressive vocabulary, allowing writers to craft sentences that convey not only information but also evoke a particular atmosphere or emotion.

Objective & Subjective Evaluation

• Technical writing is subject to objective evaluation. Technical documents are assessed based on accuracy, clarity, and adherence to predefined standards. Success is measured by how effectively it fulfills its intended purpose.
• Essay writing involves subjective evaluation. The assessment of an essay includes factors such as creativity, originality, and the ability to engage the reader emotionally. Success is often measured by the impact on the reader's perspective.

Facing challenges is a natural part of life, and in various aspects, understanding the key challenges helps us find effective solutions. Here are some informative pointers illustrating key challenges to shed light on these hurdles:

Resource Limitations

Limited budgets and resources constrain growth and innovation. These limitations can hinder the ability to implement new ideas and strategies. In order to succeed in writing an impactful essay, it is important to incorporate factors such as creativity, originality, and the ability to engage the reader emotionally. However, one must also navigate technical communication hurdles and find a balance between creativity and coherence in the narrative.

Adapting to Change

Change is constant, but coping with it can be not easy. It requires individuals and organizations to be flexible and open-minded, willing to embrace new ideas and approaches. Adapting to change also involves overcoming resistance and fear of the unknown, as well as continuously learning and evolving to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Market Competition

Staying competitive in a crowded market is a perpetual struggle. Companies must innovate and differentiate themselves to stand out from their competitors regularly. It involves understanding customer needs and preferences, conducting market research, and developing unique value propositions.

Regulatory Compliance

Following through complex regulations requires ongoing effort. Businesses must stay updated on changes in regulations, ensure their operations comply, and allocate resources to implement necessary changes. It may involve hiring legal experts or consultants to navigate the complexities of regulatory requirements and mitigate potential risks.

Talent Acquisition and Retention

Attracting and retaining skilled employees is a continuous battle. Businesses must develop effective recruitment strategies, offer competing remuneration packages, and develop a positive work environment to attract top talent. Additionally, implementing employee retention programs and providing opportunities for growth and development can help retain skilled employees and reduce turnover rates.

Technical writing and essays are distinct but equally valuable. In this guide, we have understood how technical writing is different from writing an essay. While technical writing ensures precision in conveying information, essays bring a personal touch, enriching the world of words with creativity.

As technical writing excels at delivering information with precision, essays unfold as a canvas for personal expression and exploration of ideas. Recognizing these differences empowers writers to choose the most suitable form based on their communication objectives and the nature of the content.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary has extensive experience of over 5 years in writing on a wide range of topics, including healthcare, technology, science, and business. She is highly knowledgeable and skilled in researching and crafting accurate, well-structured, and engaging content. Mary is a reliable and professional writer who is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure her clients are satisfied with her work. She is committed to delivering quality content on time and within budget.

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Difference between Technical Writing and Academic Writing

1. Technical Writing : Technical writing refers to a piece of writing which focuses on providing detailed and lucid information about the product or service. It contains factual and straight forward content. It is entirely goal-oriented and it talks about different ways by which the desired goal can be achieved. Mainly Technical writings are something new or existing concept based on the same technical domain. Here the writer avoids to explain a specific subject matter by providing his/her own point of view. 

Example includes suppose a writer writing a article based on the topic comes under computer science domain on GeeksforGeeks. 

2. Academic Writing : Academic writing refers to a piece of writing which focuses on proving a theory or viewpoint in one way or the other and emphasizes upon one specific subject. Through academic writing the writer intends to prove a theory or viewpoint in one way or the other. Mainly academic writings are based on academic findings and academic research. The writer can explain a specific subject matter by providing his/her own point of view. 

Example includes suppose a professor writing on a concept related to Chemistry and that published on college’s monthly magazine. 

Difference between Technical Writing and Academic Writing :

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Academic Writing vs. Technical Writing

What's the difference.

Academic writing and technical writing are two distinct forms of writing that serve different purposes and audiences. Academic writing is primarily used in educational settings and focuses on presenting arguments, analyzing information, and supporting claims with evidence. It is often more formal and structured, with a focus on clarity and coherence. On the other hand, technical writing is used in professional and technical fields to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. It is characterized by its use of specialized terminology, diagrams, and instructions. While both forms require precision and accuracy, academic writing emphasizes critical thinking and research, while technical writing prioritizes clarity and usability.

Further Detail

Introduction.

Academic writing and technical writing are two distinct forms of writing that serve different purposes and audiences. While both require clarity and precision, they differ in terms of their objectives, styles, and intended readership. In this article, we will explore the attributes of academic writing and technical writing, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Academic writing primarily aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in a particular field. It focuses on research, analysis, and critical thinking, often presenting arguments or theories supported by evidence. The goal is to engage with scholarly conversations and advance understanding within the academic community.

On the other hand, technical writing aims to provide practical information and instructions to help users understand and use a product, system, or process. It focuses on clarity, accuracy, and usability, aiming to communicate complex concepts in a straightforward manner. The objective is to facilitate comprehension and enable users to perform specific tasks or solve problems.

Style and Tone

Academic writing typically adopts a formal and objective tone. It emphasizes logical reasoning, evidence-based arguments, and a neutral perspective. The language used is precise, concise, and avoids colloquialisms or personal opinions. The writing style is often dense and complex, with long sentences and specialized vocabulary that may require familiarity with the subject matter.

On the other hand, technical writing adopts a clear and concise style. It prioritizes simplicity and accessibility, using plain language and avoiding jargon or unnecessary complexity. The tone is often instructional and user-focused, aiming to guide readers through a process or explain a concept step-by-step. Technical writing also frequently incorporates visual aids such as diagrams, charts, or illustrations to enhance understanding.

Academic writing is primarily intended for an audience of scholars, researchers, and experts in a specific field. It assumes a certain level of knowledge and familiarity with the subject matter, allowing for in-depth discussions and specialized terminology. The readers are typically seeking to expand their understanding or engage in scholarly debates.

On the other hand, technical writing targets a broader audience that may include both experts and non-experts. It aims to provide information or instructions that can be easily understood and applied by users with varying levels of expertise. Technical writing often considers the needs of beginners or individuals with limited background knowledge, ensuring that the content is accessible and user-friendly.

Structure and Formatting

Academic writing follows a specific structure that includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. It often includes citations and references to support claims and provide evidence. The formatting style, such as APA or MLA, is determined by the academic discipline and includes guidelines for citations, headings, and formatting of the document.

On the other hand, technical writing typically follows a more modular structure. It may include sections such as an introduction, overview, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, and frequently asked questions. The content is organized in a logical and sequential manner, allowing users to easily locate the information they need. Technical writing also often includes visual elements, such as headings, bullet points, and numbered lists, to enhance readability and facilitate navigation.

While academic writing and technical writing share the common goal of effective communication, they differ significantly in terms of objectives, style, readership, and structure. Academic writing focuses on research, analysis, and contributing to scholarly conversations, while technical writing aims to provide practical information and instructions to users. The style and tone of academic writing are formal and objective, while technical writing adopts a clear and concise approach. Academic writing targets an audience of experts, while technical writing caters to a broader range of readers. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for writers to adapt their approach and effectively communicate in the appropriate context.

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TECHNICAL WRITING vs. ACADEMIC WRITING

Sep 02, 2014

1.21k likes | 4.12k Views

TECHNICAL WRITING vs. ACADEMIC WRITING. TYPES of WRITING. PERSONAL ACADEMIC PROFESSIONAL. PERSONAL WRITING. Purpose/Objective : to entertain to inform Evaluation : desired emotional response informed. PERSONAL WRITING. Graphics : emoticons text-messaging lingo Formats : e-mail

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• urpose objective
• limited public speaking opportunities

Presentation Transcript

TECHNICAL WRITINGvs.ACADEMIC WRITING

TYPES of WRITING PERSONAL ACADEMIC PROFESSIONAL

PERSONAL WRITING • Purpose/Objective: • to entertain • to inform • Evaluation: • desired emotional response • informed

PERSONAL WRITING • Graphics: • emoticons • text-messaging lingo • Formats: • e-mail • letters • journals • text messages

PERSONAL WRITING • Audience: • equal knowledge • friends • colleagues • Informality

*AUDIENCES* Specific Audiences boss supervisor team committee politicians bank officers general public General Audience generic reader teacher perhaps fellow students TW AW

*AUDIENCES* 1 Document = Many Readers: (Many Readers = Many Needs) “food chain” boss, supervisor team engineers workers politicians bank officers general public 1 Document = 1 Reader: (1 Reader = 1 Need) teacher TW AW

PURPOSES • Purpose = • Writing Situation • Objective • Why was the document written?

PURPOSES Situation-Oriented see a need — address a need internal motivation professional motivation outcome-oriented: to get something accomplished Assignment-Oriented passive (vs. active) given a topic, test given an assignment external motivation scholastic motivation grade-oriented grade, g.p.a., degree TW AW

EVALUATION CRITERIA Success satisfaction of the needs of all readers something was done informed persuaded Success correct answer right information unity, coherence support, detail grammar TW AW

APPLICATIONS Real-World Applications case studies illustrative scenarios operations management for a job for a raise or promotion for a bid practical College Application “academic” writing essays essay exams for academics for grade for degree “show what you know” demonstrative TW AW

DISCIPLINES Across Disciplines “interdisciplinary” computer sciences psychology mixture of: history math science technology Single Discipline “discipline-specific” literary data for an English paper historical information on a history paper psychological ideas on a psychology test rarely a mixture TW AW

*PAGE DESIGN* Paragraphs 6-10 lines vary lengths for visual White Space Columns Headings Lists Graphics Varying Fonts Use of Color Relative Spacing Relative Margins Relative Justification Paragraphs Minimum of 3-5 sentences No maximum length NO White Space Columns Headings Lists Graphics Varying Fonts Use of Color Double Spacing Equal Margins Left Justification TW AW

COMPONENTS Oral, Visual, Written produce documents present documents write to be read write to be seen write to be heard Written infrequent oral and visual components predominant written component write to be read by teacher write to be graded not to be seen or heard TW AW

GRAPHICS tables charts graphs diagrams photographs maps blue prints uncommon photographs TW AW

FORMATS memos e-mails letters cover letters resumes proposals manuals portfolio abstracts reports formal informal essay questions essays based on the rhetorical strategies Description Narration Illustration Process-Analysis Division-Classification Comparison-Contrast Definition Cause-Effect Pro-Con Argument TW AW

GRAMMAR Grammar-less visual-oriented grammar = less important fragments = permissible active voice descriptive writing concise sentences spelling! proofread! Grammar-full written-oriented grammar = key sentence errors = avoided active voice descriptive writing concise sentences spelling! proofread! TW AW

CONCLUSIONS • Technical Communication: • Practicality in the employment world • Real-World application • Academic Writing: • Demonstration of knowledge • Limited to academia

CONCLUSIONS • Technical Communication: • By an informed writer • Conveying necessary information • Both visually & verbally • To a lesser-informed reader • (writer = teacher) • Academic Writing: • By a student-learner for an expert reader

CONCLUSIONS • Technical Communication: • Read by many, • To satisfy the needs of many • Academic Writing: • Read by one, • To appease the criteria of one

CONCLUSIONS • Technical Communication: • “Information Retrieval” • organization & format = designed • to help readers quickly & easily locate information • Academic Writing: • “Information Retrieval” • little concern beyond a logical organization

CONCLUSIONS • Technical Communication: • Public Speaking component — • formal conference speeches • informal meeting speeches • Academic Writing: • Limited Public Speaking opportunities • conferences or rare class projects • Public Speaking courses

DEFINITION Technical Communication: • Encompasses a wide range • of writing and speaking responsibilities • required to communicate your ideas • on the job.

SIMILARITIES • Grammar: • active voice • descriptive writing • concise sentences • spelling! • proofread!

SIMILARITIES • Writing as a Process: • Planning • Drafting • Revising

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHIES writing: process & product HEURISTIC: process reader-focused how-to analyze-and-compose process PRESCRIPTIVE: product writer-focused models/forms of writing writing: product Prescriptive/regulatory teach from models Rhetorical/abstract strategies writer-focused TW AW

ACADEMIC WRITING Purpose/Objective: to demonstrate knowledge to “show what you know” Audience: superior knowledge teachers, perhaps peer editors Evaluation: correct information unity, coherence, depth, clarity, grammar Graphics: limited to explain or persuade/convince

ACADEMIC WRITING Formats: Description Narration Illustration Process-Analysis Division-Classification (Rhetorical Strategies or Writing Models) Comparison-Contrast Definition Cause-Effect Pro-Con Argument-Persuasion

TECHNICAL WRITING Purpose/Objective: to entertain to inform Audience: equal knowledge friends, colleagues Evaluation: desired emotional response informed Graphics: emoticons text-messaging lingo Formats: e-mail letters journals text messages

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4.6 Presentations

Presentations are an interesting genre, since they can cover a variety of genres and purposes. Presentations provide the opportunity to present information in a multimodal format, and often require you to condense information for a broad audience. Within the very broad genre of “presentation” many genres fall with more specific conventions and constraints. Some examples include:

• Conference presentations
• Less formal meeting or business presentations (internal)

As technology continues to develop, you might consider other genres under the umbrella of “presentations,” including:

• Youtube videos

In this section, we talk about the specific genre of presentations, but we also focus on taking complex information (such as gathered in a formal report) and reworking, condensing, and remixing that information into a presentation, a website, a poster or infographic, or a podcast.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Just like with the other common genres that we’ve discussed so far, presentations are developed for a specific audience. So, you need to consider how your audience might best receive the information that you are working to communicate. Presentations are a great way to reach an audience, and as a communicator you get to explore various communication modes and approaches. As with anything else, what might work for one audience would not work for another audience; think back to the different ways to communicate the process of conducting a Covid-19 nasal test. Each example was effective, but only in the context of their intended audience.

Technical presentations are a specific genre that often take the complex, lengthy information included in a formal report and condenses and translates that information in a way that includes visual and audio communication modes. Consider why it is useful to present information in various ways (as a formal report and as a 5-10 minute presentation). How might presenting information in various ways or formats increase accessibility? How might developing a presentation work towards equity of information access?

When creating a presentation, the principles of universal design are important things to keep in mind. One example might be adding captions if you create a presentation that has any audio component. The captions are essential for any audience members who are hearing impaired, AND they make it easier to absorb content and understand the audio for your entire audience. Remember that universal design means that accessibility of information is an essential part of your presentation: do not think about accessibility after you’ve created your content, but work it in from the beginning and throughout your process.

Technical presentations

Technical presentations can vary quite a bit in length and content, depending on your purpose, audience, and context (remember that the rhetorical situation is always relevant!). Generally speaking, a technical presentation will:

• Condense a longer text, such as a formal report
• Summarize the most important, useful, or meaningful information from that text
• Use visuals, text, and audio together in order to tell a story

Most often, presentations work to inform, to persuade, or both. All the things that we’ve discussed so far are important to consider when you create a presentation, including plain language, document design, and considering diversity, equity, and inclusion. Just as with any other genre, to create an effective presentation, you must understand your audience.

Google Slides

These are only 3 of many free tutorials available online.

When creating effective presentation slides, be sure that you balance the amount of information on each slide. Consider how your audience is interacting with these slides: they are not likely sitting down with so much time to carefully read through each one. Rather, they may only have a minute to take in all the content. So, less is often better than putting too much text on any one slide. It’s also important to use a variety of visual modes–such as graphics and images–along with text.

The text that you choose should summarize key points, and the images should reinforce or illustrate those points. Do not make your audience take in large blocks of text. Instead, summarize key questions, data points, findings, and conclusions. Show them examples that help to illustrate these important points, but do not overwhelm them. You cannot include everything in a presentation that you would include in a lengthy report. Rather, you must choose the most important pieces so that your audience has a clear idea of what you want them to take away from your project.

When planning and creating audio, be sure that you do not simply read the text from our slides. Instead, you can use the audio portion of your presentation to further explain key concepts. Give your reader a bit more detail, but do not overwhelm them. A presentation works to create a narrative or tell a story. The audio and text should complement each other, but not be exactly the same (if you’ve ever attended a presentation where the presenter read each slide out loud, you know how uninteresting that can be!).

Finally, consider accessibility when you design your presentation. Create closed captions or subtitles when recording audio, and be sure to incorporate the principles of universal design. Try to imagine how to make information accessible to your audience in regards to your text, your use of language and terminology, your use of visuals and graphics, and your use of audio.

Message titles

On way to create stronger, more memorable presentations is through the use of  message titles  rather than  subject titles  for each slide. It’s important to use strong titles, and a message title delivers a full message to your reader. A subject title is briefer and less specific. An example of the difference between a message title and subject title might be:

Subject title: 

Covid-19 prevention

Message title: 

How can I protect myself from Covid-19?

A message title is generally more effective for audiences because it provides more information. Further, delivering a full message helps audiences to retain the information presented in that slide and it frames what you cover in that section of your presentation. Remember that audiences must  listen  to your presentation and  read  your slides at the same time. Subject titles provide information, but message titles helps audiences place that information into a more specific framework. A message title delivers your message in a more complete way.

Condensing and remixing

While most formal reports use some sort of presentation software and rely on a combination of slides (which contain visuals and text) and audio (which may be spoken live as you present to an audience or may be recorded ahead of time), there are other ways to remix and present information in a condensed and useful way. As technology develops, so does the presentation genre. For example, podcasts, videos, or websites might be useful in place of a technical presentation, again depending on the audience, purpose, and context.

If you are enrolled in WRIT 3562W, you are not asked to create a podcast or website; however, you may come across such genres and want to use them as sources in your own report. And, you will likely want to (or be asked to!) create a website or podcast someday. So how can you begin to take information presented in something like a formal report and revise, translate, and remix it for a completely different medium?

First, consider the rhetorical situation and reflect on your own experiences as a website user or a podcast listener. Which websites do you like best? Which podcasts do you enjoy? Then, do some reflection and analysis and consider the following questions:

• When interacting with a website, what features are most important to you? How are you typically interacting with content (do you want to be able to search for something specific, do you want something easy to skim, do you want to deeply read all the text, etc.)?
• Think of the easiest to navigate website you’ve visited recently; what specific features made it easy to navigate? How did it use text, images, alignment, repetition, contrast, colors, language to help you know how to find and understand information?
• Think of the most difficult to navigate website that you’ve ever visited; what made it difficult? What specific features can you identify or isolate that made it hard to find information?
• Consider your favorite podcast; how does the creator(s) organize the content and present information clearly? How long does it take to listen to? What environment do you usually listen to podcasts in (your car, at home, using headphones, on a speaker while you cook dinner…). What specific features can you identify or isolate that make it enjoyable?

These types of reflection questions help you to make decisions about the texts that you create. They are useful when considering conventions or strengths of specific genres, AND they are useful when you have to create a genre that is completely new to you. Remember that analyzing the rhetorical situation and genre conventions together make it manageable as you approach any new communication task.

Throughout this text, we’ve discussed technical communication as rhetorical, as always concerned with diversity, equity, and inclusion, how we define or set the boundaries for technical communication, and the conventions of common genres. As you continue your education and practice as a technical communicator, or as you approach any new communication situation, keep doing the work of analysis and reflection. Consider how each act of communication engages a specific audience for a specific purpose. Even the most seemingly objective genres require you to make choices: what information do you include, whose voices and experiences do you elevate, how do you take in feedback and revise your texts, how do you approach research in a way that reduces bias and incorporates marginalized experiences–these are all important pieces of the communication process. As technical communication continues to develop and evolve, and as technology and genres also change, keep these considerations in mind.

Activity and Reflection: Presenting information 

Together or with a partner, find a presentation (you can search YouTube for technical presentations or Ted Talks). Reflect on the following questions to perform a  rhetorical analysis  on the presentation:

• Who is the target audience for this presentation? How can you tell?
• What is the main purpose or goal of the presentation? How can you tell?
• What did you like about the presentation (be specific)? What features make it effective?
• What would you change, and why?
• How does the presentation use  text  and audio  together to deliver a message? How do these elements complement each other?

Introduction to Technical and Professional Communication Copyright © 2021 by Brigitte Mussack is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Differences Between Academic Writing and Technical Writing

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Expository vs Technical Writing: How Are They Different?

Effective writers have a lot in common with chameleons. They can quickly analyze a situation and adapt their communication style in the blink of an eye. One day, they might craft an industry whitepaper with technical jargon and hard-hitting facts. The next day, they could use vivid metaphors and puns to create a compelling narrative for a travel blog. 

Understanding the difference between expository vs technical writing can help you seamlessly transition between formats and styles. Expository writing presents factual information in an analytical or explanatory way. By contrast, technical writing synthesizes and simplifies complicated concepts for specific audiences. Many writers work on a mixture of expository and technical projects throughout their careers. 

This guide provides an in-depth look at the differences between expository and technical writing, including common types of each and strategies to hone your expository and  technical writing skills . 

What Is the Expository Form of Writing?

Expository writing uses evidence and analysis to educate readers about a topic. It aims to present factual information in a straightforward and objective manner. Writers typically use a linear and structured approach to lay out all the facts. 

This kind of writing often involves research to gather relevant evidence about the topic. Writers may include data, quotes from reliable sources, statistics, and other credible information. They also list their sources to establish their authority and allow readers to verify their claims. 

Additionally, the informative purpose of expository writing shapes the language and sentence structures. Writers aren’t trying to persuade readers or sell them a product, so they tend to use concise and unemotional language. They also organize information logically to guide the audience through the content.

But that doesn’t mean expository writing is boring or predictable. It should still engage the reader, even if it doesn’t try to sway them emotionally. 

Types of Expository Writing

There are many expository writing styles with different purposes and audiences. You may encounter these kinds of writing in academic, professional, and personal settings. 

Essays are one of the most popular kinds of expository writing. This piece of writing uses evidence and analysis to explain or make an informed argument about a particular topic. An essay typically has a clearly defined introduction, body paragraphs that explore the subject, and a conclusion. 

There are four main types of expository essays: 

• Cause and Effect: This essay unpacks the factors or conditions that led to specific outcomes. It aims to uncover the origins of an effect and may also explore the consequences that follow. For example, the Mayo Clinic’s essay “ Teens and social media use: What’s the impact? ” explores how social media usage (the cause) can negatively impact teenagers’ mental health (the effect). 
• Compare and Contrast: This kind of writing focuses on the similarities and differences between two or more ideas. The most effective compare-and-contrast essays examine concepts that connect in a meaningful or unexpected way. For instance, U.S. & World News published “ Private School vs. Public School ” to inform parents about the similarities and differences between schooling options for their children.   
• Problem and Solution: This essay introduces a problem, explains why it’s important to address it, and proposes one or more potential solutions. It may also anticipate and refute objections to the solutions. CNBC pitches solutions for climate change in “ 8 easy – and cheap – ways to cut your carbon emissions. ” 
• Process: This piece of writing offers a step-by-step explanation for a specific task or mechanism. It teaches broad audiences about the sequential steps involved in making a process work or completing a task. The New York Times article “ How to Write a ‘How-To’: A Step-by-Step Guide to our Contest ” is an example of a process essay and a guide to writing one yourself. 

Descriptive Writing

Descriptive writing uses rich language and literary devices to educate the reader about a topic. It’s more creative and expressive than other expository writing types. However, descriptive writing is still grounded in factual information and objectivity. Writers aim to engage readers and evoke vivid images without compromising the essay’s accuracy.

Descriptive expository writing has these characteristics: 

• Appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, taste, smell, touch) 
• An emphasis on the storytelling aspect of writing 
• Detailed descriptions of people, places, and other subjects 
• Use of similes, metaphors, and other figurative language 

Exploratory Writing

Exploratory writing investigates a problem, a topic, or experience. Creators often use this type of writing to work through an idea or explore different aspects of an issue without taking a firm stance. For instance, in this article from  The Guardian , a writer weighs the pros and cons of having children: “ As a science journalist I’m reconsidering having kids. I’m not the only one .” 

An exploratory piece of writing has these traits: 

• Considers the topic from multiple perspectives 
• Incorporates evidence from a broad range of sources 
• Use exploratory language, such as “I wonder” and “what if”
• Has a questioning and curious tone 
• Has an open-ended conclusion

Anecdotal Evidence

An anecdote is a story based on an individual’s personal experiences or observations.

Anecdotes can be incredibly powerful, especially if they’re engaging and resonate with audiences. In fact, a  meta-analysis found that anecdotal evidence is more persuasive than statistical evidence when the audience feels emotionally invested in the subject. 

However, writers must use anecdotal evidence responsibly. Anecdotes often don’t tell the full story and may contradict scientific knowledge. For instance, a pet owner may claim that cheese made their dog sick, but that doesn’t mean cheese is unsafe for all animals. This anecdote may also overlook factors contributing to the dog’s illness, like the cheese’s expiration date and the pet’s overall health. 

Writers can also unintentionally reinforce bias if they only choose anecdotes that confirm their assumptions. That’s why it’s essential for writers to use anecdotes from diverse sources and balance them with other types of evidence, such as expert testimony and empirical data. 

Sequential Writing

Sequential writing presents information in a logical and chronological order. The narrative moves from beginning to end without jumping around in time or taking unnecessary detours. Creators use this type of writing to establish a clear progression of events. For example, Vox’s article “ A timeline of Israel and Palestine’s complicated history ” discusses a sequence of events that have taken place in the Israel-Palestine conflict. 

These are key traits of sequential writing: 

• Uses specific dates or times 
• Consistent tone and pacing 
• Clear transitions to delineate events 

Tips for Mastering Expository Writing

Expository writing is one of the most effective ways to communicate knowledge with others, but it's not always easy. Writers must engage readers without sacrificing clarity and objectivity. 

These five strategies can help you create excellent expository writing: 

• Understand your audience.  Identify your target audience and tailor your expository writing accordingly. Industry leaders may prefer to read long-form content with sophisticated language and in-depth analysis. Meanwhile, readers unfamiliar with your topic will need simple language and plenty of definitions. 
• Follow a clear and logical structure.  Expository writing should present information in a clear, well-organized manner. Start with an introduction that provides background information and summarizes your main point. Next, use headers and paragraphs to lay out your evidence logically. You may choose to present information chronologically, hierarchically, or thematically. 
• Choose high-quality sources.  Research is the cornerstone of every expository piece of writing, so it’s essential to pick the right sources. Look for accurate and timely content published by experts on your topic. Google Scholar is an excellent resource for finding peer-reviewed articles. You can also gather evidence from industry reports, government websites, and reputable news outlets. 
• Provide diverse evidence.  Strengthen your expository pieces by providing diverse evidence from various sources. A short article could include statistics from different studies and real-life examples. Extended writing can consist of many types of evidence, such as case studies and expert testimony. This evidence highlights the depth of your research and makes your writing more compelling. 
• Present information objectively.  Expository writing sticks to the facts. Include credible evidence for all your claims and use a neutral tone. You should also carefully review your writing to make sure you don’t accidentally insert your own biases or views. 

What Is the Technical Form of Writing?

Technical writing conveys specialized knowledge to a specific audience for a purpose. It aims to provide clear and precise instructions or information about complicated topics.

This form of writing often requires inside knowledge of an industry or topic. Technical writers use their expertise to synthesize complex ideas into concise and easy-to-understand language. They also explain or translate technical terms for broad audiences.

Like expository writing, technical writing prioritizes clarity and objectivity. It uses purposeful language catered to the needs of the audience. Technical documents are clearly organized with headings and subheadings, bulleted lists, and numbered steps for easy comprehension. They often include diagrams, charts, and other visual aids to illustrate complex ideas. 

Types of Technical Writing

Many different types of writing fall under the umbrella of technical communication. Organizations often use different methods to reach different audiences, so it's important for writers to understand the basics of each type.

User Guides or User Manuals

User guides and user manuals teach customers how to set up, maintain, and use products. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they’re different forms of writing with distinct purposes. 

User manuals are comprehensive documents that provide in-depth information about a product or system. They typically include: 

• Assembly instructions
• Product specifications
• Maintenance requirements
• Safety information
• Troubleshooting tips

User manuals for cars and other complex products may have dozens or hundreds of pages. They're often broken into chapters and sections so readers can more easily find the information they need.

User guides are much shorter and teach users how to perform essential tasks. They may also include a quick overview of the product’s features and functions. Furniture and simple appliances often come with user guides that provide basic instructions for assembly and usage. 

Statements of Work (SOW)

A statement of work is an agreement between a business and a client. It describes the products and services the company will deliver as part of a project. 

A SOW typically covers these key components: 

• Goals of the project
• Project scope, including deliverables and limitations 
• Timeline and milestones 
• Resources needed
• Acceptance criteria 

Technical writers often collaborate with project managers and clients to create SOWs. 

Policies and Procedures

Policies and procedures spell out how employees should behave and perform their job duties. They provide detailed guidelines for every aspect of an organization’s operations. Employees can use these documents to understand their roles and comply with regulations and standards. 

Here are a few common examples of policies and procedures: 

• Anti-discrimination policy 
• Code of conduct 
• Data security protocols 
• Smoking policy 
• Termination procedures 

White Papers

A white paper is an in-depth report that provides expert analysis of an issue or trend. Businesses create white papers about topics related to their products and sales. However, these documents aim to educate readers, not make an overt sales pitch. 

White papers are academic and typically contain infographics, statistics, and expert quotes.  Writing technical white papers helps companies establish themselves as industry authority figures and thought leaders. 

Software Documentation

Software documentation refers to written materials and illustrations that describe a software program’s system, processes, and functionality. This documentation can address various audiences, including software developers, engineers, and end users. 

There are many types of software documentation, including: 

• Design documentation 
• Requirements documentation 
• Support documentation 
• System architecture documentation 
• User manuals

Scientific and Medical Papers

Scientific and medical papers are peer-reviewed academic articles written by researchers, doctors, and other experts. These documents present research findings, cutting-edge advancements, and theories. They’re written for other academics and specialists, so they often use jargon and sophisticated language. 

Conventions vary somewhat by discipline, but scientific and medical papers typically have these components: 

• Abstract summarizing the paper’s goals, approaches, and results
• Introduction with a hypothesis 
• Description of methods and tools used 
• Results presented in descriptive paragraphs, charts, or figures
• Discussion of the findings and their implications 

Assembly Manuals

An assembly manual is a brief document that guides readers through the process of putting together a product. It contains simple step-by-step instructions written for non-experts. It often includes troubleshooting tips and safety precautions as well. Manufacturers often provide assembly manuals for furniture, electronics, and toys. 

Technical Reports and Reviews

Technical reports and reviews are non-peer-reviewed documents that describe and analyze technical processes, projects, and products. They aim to inform the reader about the significance of their subjects and their implications for industry practices. 

Technical reports and reviews may include descriptions of unsuccessful experiments, data, literature reviews, and recommendations for future projects. These documents are typically created by scientists, engineers, and other academics. 

Tips for Writing Technical Tests Flawlessly

Technical content writing can be a challenge, even for experienced writers. Writers need a deep understanding of their subject, or else risk sharing misleading or flat-out false information. They also need to synthesize and simplify complex information without compromising precision. It’s a tricky balance to strike.

These tips can help refine your technical writing skills: 

• Develop expertise in your subject.  Study the product or process you’re documenting before you fire up your computer to write. If possible, use the product first to understand how it works. You can also interview subject matter experts, read relevant articles, and attend training sessions. Your knowledge will allow you to create the most comprehensive and accurate documents. 
• Study other writers’ technical documents.  Reading real documentation is one of the most effective ways to master the  basics of technical writing . Analyze their structure, language, and style to gain insights into technical writing conventions. 
• Simplify and streamline your language.  Technical writing should be concise, easy to understand, and unambiguous. Avoid complex terminology and jargon that your target audience may not understand. You should also cut the  fluff in writing and only include strictly necessary information.   
• Test your documentation.  You won’t know if your technical writing has achieved its purpose unless you test it with users. Ask stakeholders or users to review your documentation and identify confusing or ambiguous areas. For instance, you can ask representative users to try to assemble a bookshelf based on your directions. This process can help you identify weaknesses in your documentation. 

Showcase Your Writing Skills at Compose.ly

Expository and technical writing both aim to communicate factual information to audiences. However, they use different strategies and formats to accomplish this goal. Learning the differences between these different forms of writing can help you communicate more effectively while reaching larger audiences.

You can put your writing skills to the test as a freelance writer for  Compose.ly . You’ll have the opportunity to work on expository and technical projects for a broad range of clients. We also offer the freedom to work on your schedule and choose the projects you want to work on. Apply now to  become a writer and extend your reach to new audiences. 

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Table of Contents

(1) Proving vs. Instructing

Academic writing is all about proving something in one way or the other.

Technical writing , on the other hand, is all about instructing how to do something to achieve a specific goal.

(2) Knowledge vs. Solution

Academic writing aims at expanding our knowledge of the world.

Technical writing , on the other hand, aims at offering solutions to specific problems that we are faced with in the world.

(3) Win argument vs. Change behavior

Academic writing tries to win a rational argument by offering evidence, precedence, and reference.

Technical writing , on the other hand, tries to change our behavior by instructing us the logical steps through which we can complete a task successfully.

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Technical Vs Academic Writing 1

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Mohd nor Safidzi

Eloise Aimee Aventajado

This study analyzed the influences of textism in students’ writing. Specifically, it determined the textism used by the respondents, the features of textism in students’ written outputs, the influences of textism in formal and informal writing, and the significant relationship between textism and written outputs. This is a qualitative and quantitative study that made use of the comparative and correlational design. It was conducted at Cebu Normal University having 113 respondents who were enrolled in English 2 (Writing in the Discipline) course. Data were gathered from the text messages and Facebook group chats between the respondents and the researcher. Students’ written outputs like free writing, two- week journal entries, descriptive essays and definition essays were also gathered. Findings revealed that emoticons, onomatopoeic spelling, and omitted apostrophes were mostly used by the respondents in text messages, while acronyms and initialisms, omitted apostrophes and emoticons were mostly present in their written outputs. Moreover, textism in formal and informal writing was found to be not influential, and there was a significant difference of textism in students’ formal and informal written outputs. There was also a negative trend of relationship between textism and written outputs. Therefore, textism did not affect the writing performance of the students. Keywords: textism, text messaging, formal writing, informal writing, language change

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TECHNICAL WRITING vs. ACADEMIC WRITING - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

TECHNICAL WRITING vs. ACADEMIC WRITING

Technical writing vs. academic writing types of writing personal academic professional personal writing purpose/objective: to entertain to inform evaluation: desired ... – powerpoint ppt presentation.

• PROFESSIONAL
• Purpose/Objective
• to entertain
• desired emotional response
• text-messaging lingo
• text messages
• equal knowledge
• Informality
• Specific Audiences
• politicians
• bank officers
• general public
• General Audience
• generic reader
• perhaps fellow students
• 1 Document Many Readers
• (Many Readers Many Needs)
• boss, supervisor
• 1 Document 1 Reader
• (1 Reader 1 Need)
• Writing Situation
• Why was the document written?
• Situation-Oriented
• address a need
• internal motivation
• professional motivation
• outcome-oriented
• to get something accomplished
• Assignment-Oriented
• passive (vs. active)
• given a topic, test
• given an assignment
• external motivation
• scholastic motivation
• grade-oriented
• grade, g.p.a., degree
• satisfaction of the needs of all readers
• something was done
• correct answer
• right information
• unity, coherence
• support, detail
• Real-World Applications
• case studies
• illustrative scenarios
• operations management
• for a raise or promotion
• College Application
• academic writing
• essay exams
• for academics
• show what you know
• demonstrative
• Across Disciplines
• interdisciplinary
• computer sciences
• Single Discipline
• discipline-specific
• literary data for an English paper
• historical information on a history paper
• psychological ideas on a psychology test
• rarely a mixture
• vary lengths for visual
• White Space
• Varying Fonts
• Use of Color
• Relative Spacing
• Relative Margins
• Relative Justification
• Minimum of 3-5 sentences
• No maximum length
• Double Spacing
• Equal Margins
• Left Justification
• Oral, Visual, Written
• produce documents
• present documents
• write to be read
• write to be seen
• write to be heard
• infrequent oral and visual components
• predominant written component
• write to be graded
• not to be seen or heard
• photographs
• blue prints
• cover letters
• essay questions
• essays based on the rhetorical strategies
• Description
• Illustration
• Process-Analysis
• Division-Classification
• Comparison-Contrast
• Cause-Effect
• Pro-Con Argument
• Grammar-less
• visual-oriented
• grammar less important
• fragments permissible
• active voice
• descriptive writing
• concise sentences
• Grammar-full
• written-oriented
• grammar key
• sentence errors avoided
• Technical Communication
• Practicality in the employment world
• Real-World application
• Academic Writing
• Demonstration of knowledge
• Limited to academia
• By an informed writer
• Conveying necessary information
• Both visually verbally
• To a lesser-informed reader
• (writer teacher)
• By a student-learner for an expert reader
• Read by many,
• To satisfy the needs of many
• Read by one,
• To appease the criteria of one
• Information Retrieval
• organization format designed
• to help readers quickly easily locate information
• little concern beyond a logical organization
• Public Speaking component
• formal conference speeches
• informal meeting speeches
• Limited Public Speaking opportunities
• conferences or rare class projects
• Public Speaking courses
• Encompasses a wide range
• of writing and speaking responsibilities
• required to communicate your ideas
• on the job.
• Writing as a Process
• writing process product
• reader-focused
• analyze-and-compose process
• PRESCRIPTIVE
• writer-focused
• models/forms of writing
• writing product
• prescriptive
• teach from models
• rhetorical strategies
• to demonstrate knowledge
• to show what you know
• superior knowledge
• teachers, perhaps peer editors
• correct information
• unity, coherence,
• depth, clarity, grammar
• to explain or persuade
• (Rhetorical Strategies or Writing Models)
• Argument-Persuasion
• friends, colleagues

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