The use of quirk topics can help solve one of the technical writing instructor's hardest problems: selection of a challenging topic. A quirk topic derives from some paradox of science or technology which, upon reflection, calls for thought. The quirk topic challenges the technical writing student to focus on the reader, gather data, and interpret and report data convincingly. This article explains the use of quirk topics, suggests twenty such topics, and explains how to solve problems of their use.

Boilerplate paragraphs, pages, and even longer standard sections are materials taken from one writing and used with little or no change in another. Such materials can save time, cut costs, help to meet deadlines, and at times raise quality. This article outlines the advantages and disadvantages of using boilerplate in preparing long documents and suggests applications and guidelines for the proper use of boilerplate. It also proposes diagnostic questions and prescriptions for ensuring that off-the-shelf materials are accurate and up to date.

Case problems based upon believable circumstances can improve instruction in technical writing in college courses and industrial seminars. Such case problems give students and trainees realistic tasks, carry them through the various stages of writing a report, and reflect the systems approach to technical writing. This article explains the usefulness of case problems, suggests ways and criteria for their preparation, and offers a brief example of a case problem.