{{B}} Technical writers{{/B}}
Twenty years ago, there were only a few technical writers and they were employed to write complicated specifications for computer programmers or aeronautical engineers. These days{{U}} (31) {{/U}}is a rapidly expanding profession and technical writers are in great demand. They are now involved{{U}} (32) {{/U}}producing all kinds of documentation, from the user guides that come with word processing packages{{U}} (33) {{/U}}sophisticated online tutorials. Surprisingly, it is not always necessary to have{{U}} (34) {{/U}}strong technical background in order to become a technical writer. However{{U}} (35) {{/U}}are certain skills which every technical writer must possess.

Firstly, it is very important to be able to write well. This means{{U}} (36) {{/U}}only knowing the basics of spelling, grammar and punctuation, but also having the ability to condense and organise complicated information to{{U}} (37) {{/U}}it simple to understand. A good writer must also be able to cope with meeting tight deadlines.

As far{{U}} (38) {{/U}}career prospects are concerned, after gaining valuable experience, many technical writers have the opportunity of taking on management roles. They may then{{U}} (39) {{/U}}responsible for the work of other writers within a particular company, or they may prefer to become contractors. This means selling their services through an agency employing many freelance technical writers{{U}} (40) {{/U}}services are charged to companies at an hourly rate.