WRITING REQUIRES CREATIVITY, TECH PEOPLE HAVE IT
An insight into the skill of technical writing and crossing over into creative writing in the viewpoint of an IS major.
The field of Writing versus the field of Information Systems might seem like one is grasping for two different entities that are from opposite sides of the spectrum. However, these two items are more related than it seems.
There is a difference between having imagination but not having the ability to insert emotions into writing compared to one who has difficulty with both concepts.
The belief that men and women who work in the technology field have no sense of imagination or creativity is an absolute myth. To create systems or databases, a person must visualize what it will look like before and during the analysis and design processes. However, this unique quality must cross-over when venturing into writing.
Different yet Similar
Many in the technology field write reports that state detailed facts yet keep things straight to the point. A writer does the same to some degree; however, they strive to convey thoughts and emotions without directly telling the reader how to feel. The words and descriptions used need to guide the reader to the point or emotional setup that is trying to be conveyed.
It doesn’t hurt to throw yourself into the writing. Let personality shine through. Include personal details inspired by yourself and flesh out the story further. Let it become more relatable.
Read Something Out of the Ordinary
Try to keep up on your reading or to start reading. When there’s down time, pick up a book that would be the complete opposite, what would be atypical of your normal habit. If networking or cyber-security books are the usual picks, put that down for now and look at for example, fiction. Pick something that can be a training guide and example for an inspiring writer, and still be pleasant to read.
Many seasoned authors continue to read and write non-stop even if they have written multiple bestsellers. Consistency is the key.
Write Every Day
It may sound redundant since it was already mentioned how much writing takes place in the technology sector. However, you can’t just input limited information; and expect a valid output. Practicing one subset will limit potential. Expanding into different categories like fictional, nonfiction, memoir, etc. will increase the chances of honing that main skill-writing.
Coders and web designers practice daily to prefect their skills and writing is just the same. Setting a goal of writing at least 500 words daily is a start. An alternative would be to write a small journal entry of an interesting thought or revelation. Like ideas that come up when inspired, when zoning out, or when on the verge of sleep. Don’t let a great idea slip away because you didn’t write it down.
Creativity is found within a wide spectrum. Versatility can allow anyone, even in the technology field, to jump into creative writing.
