Technical Writing is specialized writing designed for technical and professional fields, including computer engineering, bio-chemistry, computer hardware and software, aerospace, metallurgy, mathematics, physics, aeronautics, biotechnology, software, energy, and consumer products. The purpose of Technical Writing is to provide information that is relevant to a particular area of study by the use of precise technical language. Technical Writing is different from other forms of technical writing in that it places more emphasis on facts and figures than on descriptions of these facts and figures. It is a creative medium, employing many different structural elements such as narration, illustration, illustrations, and graphs, to present complex ideas in a clear and concise form. Because of the increasing importance of technical writers, the field of Technical Writing has become widely recognized and respected throughout the world.
The practice of Technical Writing dates back to the early nineteenth century. In the United States, William H. Sewell invented the first practical jigsaw, which is considered to be an ancestor of the modern computer. While working in a woodworking shop, Sewell made a note of an ability that came to be called Technical Writing.
Sewell's notes and prototype jigs became the foundation of what is known today as Technical Writing. With this foundation, Sewell refined the process of Technical Writing to suit the needs of manufacturers and makers of technical communication products, which includes web pages. Thus, the practice of Technical Writing has developed into the modern day tools and processes of technical communication.