publishing and books

This book is clear, readable and interesting (more than I can say for my other reference books on this subject). It uses not just examples of good doc writing and formats, but also examples of first-cut not-so-good ones, and contrasts them. The layout of the book is easy to use, and the content complete.

I have several other reference books on this subject, and this is the one I love.

This is very much a book for beginners. What areas it does cover are only done on a superficial level. Anyone that has any formal training/education in technical writing will find very little in this book that is not either basic information or common sense. Important areas are covered in such a way that you know that you have to go elsewhere for the full story. There are too many better books out there.

If you read only one tech writing book, this should be that book. Saying neither too much nor too little, this book steps you through everything you need to know, from where and how to find the background documents you need in order to learn about your subject, through how to schedule your project, to how to produce your outline, drafts, and finished document. Read this book!