Favorite Software and Tools for Technical Writing

FAQ on Technical Writing

I had several posts devoted to tech writing and other useful tools. But things change, and it is high time to tell you what tools I like using today. Here they are:

1. I’ve already mentioned that I use ClickHelp to work on my technical documentation. I still do it. I know that many tech writers think tools like that are for big companies, and if your product is small, you can use Google Docs. It is not convenient for me as I got used to full control over what I do. I can’t imagine my life without a help authoring tool. And I recommend using a cloud-based tool as you can use it from any place. Check out this post — Top Cloud-Based Authoring Tools.
2. I often insert diagrams in my technical documentation. The tool that I use most often is Lucidchart. That is a simple and convenient diagramming tool. You only need a computer with a web browser to use it. But there is an offline mode that allows you to work even if you are not connected. I am not a designer, but I really like what I can do in Luсidchart. My diagrams look nice. It has both a free and a paid version. There is a variety of templates, which is very helpful. What I especially like is that the tool is easy to start working with. I need time to get used to a new tool and to master it, this process is sometimes challenging for me. That’s why I appreciate intuitive tools that do not require a long learning curve. Besides, my technical writing tool allows me to easily insert Lucidchart diagrams in my documents. So, I am happy I don’t have to bother about that.
3. I use OBS Studio to create screencasts. I have a post about that — Tips to Create Screencasts for Software Documentation. My screencasts are short and simple, so I don’t need any specific features, and OBS Studio offers all I need. You can not only record videos but also edit them. Actually, this screen recorder has everything you need to create professional content. Though this tool requires a learning curve, it is worth that. If you need more information on what tools are useful as well, check out this post — Tools for Making Videos.
4. If I need to compare texts with each other, I use Diffchecker. It is so simple! Just enter the content of two files and click Find Difference — that’s it. The tool can compare not only texts but images and PDF files as well. It saves time and effort.
5. Image editing is something that I do very often. At the moment, I use GIMP, a free and open-source image editor. I wouldn’t say that it is a professional tool, but it helps to produce content of high quality. GIMP is a good alternative to Photoshop. It is intuitive and offers all the most popular features for free. And, it is good for beginners. The interface is very clear and well-organized.
6. I pay a lot of attention to planning, and Notion is here to help me. It is an amazing tool to organize your time and workflow, and notes. It is both for companies and individuals. I use it a lot to create notes, contacts, questions, reference data, etc. In other words, I efficiently organize myself, my activities, my work. That makes me work faster and complete even more tasks.

What are your favorite tools for technical writing?

How did I become a technical writer? What skills do you need? Read FAQ on Technical Writing.

FAQ on Technical Writing