Learn methods and tools for writing professional, technical documents

Course overview
This course teaches a unique combination of methods and tools for developing technical and instructional information so that it is clear and usable for the reader. This program is an intensive introduction to technical writing concepts and techniques, enabling participants to develop techncial documents that are accurate, complete and easy to use.

Learn to develop multiple types of technical documents
The methods, concepts and techniques taught in this course are specifically designed for creating documents such as:

• User Manuals
• System Procedures
• Online Help
• Assembly Instructions
• Owner's/Operator's Manuals
• Technical Reference
• QuickStart Cards
• Job-aids
• And other procedural documents

Specific skills you will learn
Upon completion of this course, you will learn to:

• Follow a user-centered writing process
• Assess the information needs of your reader
• Work with subject-matter experts and existing sources to capture content
• Organize and sequence information to meet your users' needs and expectations
• Write content at the correct level of detail
• Apply best practices for selecting, developing and formatting:
  • Simple procedures
  • Complex procedures (with contingencies)
  • Processes (in table and flowchart formats)
  • Supporting knowledge information (concepts, definitions, etc.)
  • Tables, lists and charts
  • Illustrations and screen captures
• Review, test, and revise your documents to ensure usability

Who should attend
This course is specifically designed for individuals without a formal background in technical writing and who are responsible for creating various types of user documentation. Typical attendees include:

• Product managers
• System developers
• Quality professionals
• Documentation managers
• Project managers
• Subject-matter experts

What you'll receive
You will receive:

• Comprehensive, hands-on instruction from a professional consultant and trainer
• Individual feedback on documents you develop in class
• A 200-page Reference Guide detailing all techniques and concepts taught
• DocuTools 5.0 Formatting Software for MS Word (CD-ROM and user license)
• Worksheets, job-aids and templates for use on your own projects

Delivery options and pricing

Option #1: In-house, classroom training 2 days of hands-on training delivered at your facilities by a Certified PTA instructor Class size: 5 to 16 (recommended) Select a time and location convenient for your team or department Fee includes all instruction, course materials and DocuTools software Ideal for intact work groups and departments seeking a standard approach to document development Using computers in the classroom, participants learn Structured Writing techniques and DocuTools software simultaneously, so they return to the job ready create usable documents Standard rate: $995 per person GSA rate: $795 per person		Option #2: Interactive, online training Learn when you want, where you want with 24-hour access to interactive lessons and activities Receive detailed, customized feedback on written assignments you submit to a certified PTA instructor via email Arrange to talk with an instructor at anytime with conceptual or technical questions Complete your training and certification in 1 to 10 weeks (2-3 is average) Fee includes all course materials, online lessons, custom scored feedback, and DocuTools Formatting software Standard rate: $995 per person GSA rate: $795 per person Register online >

Option #3: Instructor Certification Program If you anticipate training a large number of staff annually within your organization, you might consider certifying your own instructor(s) to teach the workshop within your organization. This option provides maximum flexibility for conducting training and reduces training costs. To learn more about instructor prerequisites, the certification process and fee structures, please contact us.

For more information...

	Read:	PTA Course Catalog
	Call:	800-820-7280
	Email:	info@p-t-a.com