If you’ve embarked on a quest to explore Technical Writing certification courses, you’re likely to come across the Technical Writer HQ’s Technical Writer Certification Course on numerous platforms. In fact, this course often dominates discussions within the field. As an advocate of effective technical writing, I’ve endorsed it in my blog post titled ‘Everything You Need to Know About Technical Writing’ as one of the go-to courses for newcomers.
An Honest Evaluation
In the realm of certification courses, the Technical Writer HQ’s Technical Writer Certification Course claims a prominent position. To provide an unbiased assessment, I personally invested in and completed the course. Allow me to take you through my observations.
Course Overview
Costing $299, this course is hosted on the Teachable platform, ensuring flexibility in pacing. The course promises to equip participants with:
- Fundamental technical writing insight;
- Proficiency in crafting exceptional documentation;
- Expertise in handling technical writing interviews;
- Strategies to stand out during interviews and secure a technical writing position.
The course structure incorporates exercises with answers, allowing self-assessment. A pivotal component is the completion of a capstone project, encompassing various forms of documentation discussed within the course. Feedback from the course creator enhances the learning process, culminating in a certificate of completion.
The Pros:
For novices in technical writing, the course holds substantial value. It effectively fulfills its commitment to teaching the core tenets of the discipline. Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of technical writing, various roles, and essential principles and techniques indispensable for success.
Furthermore, participants acquire valuable editing tips that enhance the overall quality of their work. The course delves into crafting a compelling technical writer’s resume, negotiating salaries, and responding to common interview questions – crucial skills for job seekers in this domain.
The Cons:
However, a notable shortcoming emerges in the course’s practicality in teaching documentation writing. The content follows a monotonous narrative style that lacks engagement. Its theoretical approach, though informative, could have been balanced with more practical instructions.
The instructional delivery is inconsistent and occasionally lacks practical demonstrations. For instance, the section on ‘documenting an API’ provides theoretical considerations instead of hands-on steps. The course veers into diverse niches of technical writing, including software, hardware, and even proposal writing, occasionally diluting its focus.
Comparison Table: Technical Writer Certification Courses
| Course | Technical Writer HQ’s Certification Course | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $349 | $279 |
| Delivery Platform | Teachable | Udemy | Coursera |
| Practical Instruction | Limited | Yes | Yes |
| Specialization Options | Broad Spectrum | Software Focused | Industry Specific |
| Access Period | Self-paced | Lifetime Access | Course Duration |
Final Verdict
Undoubtedly, the Technical Writer HQ’s Technical Writer Certification Course serves as an excellent stepping stone for beginners. However, if you possess experience in technical writing, particularly in specific niches, the course might not be as enriching. Notably, the sections on editing, proofreading, salary negotiation, and insights from experienced technical writers at esteemed organizations bring value to the course.
Conclusion
In summary, the Technical Writer HQ’s Certification Course is a potent resource for novices venturing into the field of technical writing. While it might not fully meet the expectations of seasoned technical writers, its comprehensive insights and practical sections make it a worthy investment for those looking to embark on a technical writing journey.
Whether you’re just entering the world of technical writing or seeking to enhance your skills, a careful consideration of this comprehensive review will aid in making an informed decision. If you’re inclined to enroll in the course, you can take advantage of a special 20% discount through my referral link.
FAQ
While it provides value to beginners, experienced writers might find some sections less beneficial, such as the theoretical approach to documentation writing.
Yes, you’ll have ongoing access to the course content, allowing you to revisit the materials as needed.
The capstone project encourages the practical application of concepts learned. Feedback from the course creator enhances understanding and skill development.
While exercises with answers are included, the course might lack in-depth hands-on exercises for certain sections.