Abstract
A technical writer who wants to become a supervisor or manager needs to know technical editing. A technical editor is an accomplished technical writer whose language skills are augmented by a thorough knowledge of formats, graphics, layout and design methods, and the mechanics of publications production. Any course in technical editing should cover these five distinct areas. Language studies in technical editing require a special emphasis in proofreading and technical abridgment. The study of formats goes beyond rote memorization. Technical editing students study the logic behind established formats and learn how to improve them and develop new ones. The production and editing of graphics require artistic—and even theatrical—judgments. And the planning, preparation, and printing of newsletters, journals, and books require a special combination of verbal, visual, and manual skills. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of technical editing and the variety of technologies in which advanced technical editing skills may be acquired, the technical editor never stops being a student.