What Does an API Technical Writer Do?

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So what does an API technical writer do?
An API technical writer creates documentation that explains how an Application Programming Interface or API works. They provide use-case examples to describe the most effective ways to use the interface and provide in-depth descriptions of the API’s functions and how it interacts within the application.
In case the API is complex or needs a better understanding on the user’s part, writers will build tutorials for users on how to implement the API. Lastly, API writers will make arguments in favor of how the API is used and its interactions with the host system.
Unlike most industrial technical documents, API documents are a hybrid of visuals such as screenshots and written material. With that in mind, API technical writers have to create a well-defined starting point for developers to get acquainted with the new API. This gives them a solid direction to start planning, designing, and building the feature. Writers also have to structure the document to facilitate the most common use cases for the API.
For example, if the API performs a set of actions that end-users commonly implement, that will prominently show in the documentation. One important aspect of the technical writer’s job is to ensure that documents are written not just for high-level developers and engineers, but also for people with less technical understanding.
The documents themselves need to contain examples, code samples, authentication, and other resources to be valuable to readers. To do this, writers have to write comprehensively and support their arguments at every step. Use cases serve as the prime example-based arguments in favor of the API.
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[@gulbalasalamov1367]

Thank you. Useful content

[@anac.154]

Thank you for the very detailed content!

[@remyd8767]

Great video. For APIs with cryptic looking fields, do you think normalizing or creating business field names for the cryptic fields a must have or just a nice to have? Also what about error messages. How far should we go explaining all the possible error messages

[@ErikHaanVincent]

Do API technical writers typically have a programming background?

[@cryptoProcharts]

It would be advantageous to know programming.

[@MsGhasib]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
00:36 *📝 API technical writers create documentation explaining how APIs work, including use case examples and in-depth descriptions of functions and interactions.*
02:11 *🛠️ Writers structure API documents to cater to various user levels, ensuring a balanced tone and valuable content with examples and resources.*
04:08 *📚 User tutorials in API documentation enhance developer experience by providing comprehensive modules and visual aids to facilitate understanding and implementation.*
05:09 *📊 Active solicitation of user feedback allows writers to refine documentation and support API arguments with data and metrics.*
06:12 *📄 API technical documents typically consist of five sections, including Quick Start Guide, Authentication Info, Endpoints Definition, Code Snippet Examples, and Example Responses.*

[@Amy-zz5ln]

I write technical blogs on different technologies and want to become API documentation writer. But, almost no companies are hiring fresher API writer. They want experienced ones. Can you suggest me how to get API documentation writer job without experience?

[@Megan6772]

No offense at all, I used to be an ESL (English as Second Language) teacher....I can see by the grammar you've used here why they may not be hiring you. Are you writing in English? Your English needs to be 💯 if so

[@mrrobot-mn6re]

@@Megan6772 English is important in tech writing but what's critical is your ability to explain technical stuff,your grammar won't pay you,your knowledge of Tech will

[@ivad4303]

@@mrrobot-mn6re Actually, your grammar and your ability to explain technical stuff needs to be perfect. No one will hire you if you don't have perfect English.

[@Megan6772]

Typo @9:30 btw 🤗

[@markcuello5]

SECURITY

[@txjen39]

overuse of his hand gestures (distracting) and too nasal sounding voice.

[@Megan6772]

Rude