- Technical Writing
- 25 MIN READ
How to Make Money from Technical Writing?
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By Snehasish Konger
- Last updated on
With over four years of technical writing experience and conversations with professionals in both full-time roles and freelance gigs, I’ve gathered insights that can help you build a highly profitable technical writing career. This blog offers a data-driven, practical guide—not a quick fix—to show how you can scale your income.
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Quick Summary:
Technical writing offers a path to six-figure earnings through a combination of freelancing, full-time employment, and leveraging multiple income streams like content licensing and teaching. The demand for technical writers continues to grow, driven by industries like software and healthcare. Key to success is diversifying services—offering not just writing but consulting and training—while building a personal brand to attract higher-paying opportunities. Although challenges like managing workloads and staying updated on technology trends exist, they can be overcome with strategic planning, continuous learning, and effective client relationship management.

The global rise of technology, particularly software development, has increased the need for professionals who can communicate complex information clearly. This is where technical writers come in, translating technical jargon into comprehensible material for varied audiences—developers, end-users, and business decision-makers.
According to a 2023 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of technical writers is projected to grow by 12% from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than the average for other occupations. This trend indicates that businesses across industries, from healthcare to SaaS, need writers to document processes, create user guides, and manage internal and external communication.

Skills You Need to Succeed in Technical Writing
To reach the top percentile of technical writers, possessing a blend of specialized skills is crucial. Simply being a good writer isn’t enough to secure high-paying opportunities. Below is a breakdown of the essential skills that help technical writers stand out, especially in competitive and lucrative markets.
1. Writing and Communication Skills
At the core of technical writing is the ability to simplify complex concepts without losing their meaning. A high-level technical writer transforms complicated material into accessible, clear, and precise content for various audiences, including engineers, end-users, and executives.
- Clarity: Great technical writers deliver information in a way that reduces confusion. This is especially critical for audiences who may not be experts in the subject matter.
- Adaptability: Writing for different audiences (developers vs. non-technical users) requires switching between technical jargon and plain language, depending on the context.
Industry Insight: According to data from the American Writers and Artists Institute, highly skilled writers specializing in clear and concise communication earn between $80,000 and $100,000 annually. Senior roles in large enterprises, where clarity in documentation directly impacts business outcomes, can earn even more.
2. Technical Proficiency
To secure high-paying opportunities, technical writers must be knowledgeable about the technologies they document. While you don’t need to be an expert developer, understanding the tools, programming languages, and systems relevant to your field will make you more competitive.
Key Areas of Technical Proficiency:
- Software Development: Knowing common programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or HTML helps technical writers produce more accurate and functional documentation.
- SaaS & Cloud Platforms: Familiarity with cloud solutions like AWS, Azure, and SaaS applications boosts earning potential since these platforms are highly sought-after in tech writing.
- Cybersecurity & AI: Writers in niche fields such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence often command higher salaries due to the specialized nature of the material. For example, a technical writer in cybersecurity earns an average salary of $120,000/year, according to Payscale.
Data Point: The Payscale Salary Survey (2023) revealed that technical writers working in cybersecurity and cloud-based services earned, on average, 30% more than their counterparts in other fields.
3. SEO & Content Optimization
For freelance writers, knowing how to optimize content for search engines (SEO) can significantly increase visibility, leading to more work and higher pay. When freelance writers create content that ranks well on search engines, they increase the reach of their documentation, manuals, or blogs, resulting in better client retention and higher-paying projects.
- Keyword Optimization: Understanding how to effectively use keywords in documentation and articles ensures that your work is discoverable by the right audiences. SEO skills increase the likelihood of your work getting noticed, particularly on freelance platforms.
- Content Strategy: Creating content optimized for search engines isn’t just about using the right keywords—it’s about structuring content in a way that adds value to both search engines and human readers.
Data Insight: In a survey conducted by Content Marketing Institute (2022), 67% of freelance technical writers reported a 30% increase in earnings after incorporating SEO practices into their work. Many freelancers charge premium rates for SEO-optimized content.
Industry-Specific Salaries and Growth Opportunities
The earning potential for technical writers varies greatly depending on the industry they work in. Writers in niche industries or emerging technologies tend to earn significantly more than those in more traditional sectors.
1. Healthcare and Life Sciences
Technical writers in the healthcare industry are in demand for creating documentation on medical devices, pharmaceutical products, and health IT solutions. Due to stringent compliance requirements, these writers often command high salaries.
- Average Salary: $80,000 to $110,000/year (Payscale, 2023)
2. Software and SaaS
Technical writers specializing in software documentation, APIs, and SaaS platforms earn substantial incomes. This is a growing field, with software companies consistently expanding their products and needing accurate documentation.
- Average Salary: $85,000 to $125,000/year (Glassdoor, 2023)
3. Engineering and Manufacturing
In industries like manufacturing, technical writers document processes, machinery operation, and safety protocols, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
- Average Salary: $70,000 to $100,000/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023)

4. Real-World Examples of Salary Growth
Several freelance platforms and job boards provide insights into the income potential for top technical writers.
- Upwork: The average hourly rate for technical writers on Upwork ranges from $50 to $150/hour, depending on experience and specialization. Writers who work on long-term projects with high-profile clients can earn well over $100,000 annually.
- Freelancer: Writers specializing in niche fields, such as API documentation or developer guides, report earnings of $200,000 or more annually by landing high-ticket clients and projects.
By mastering these essential skills—communication, technical knowledge, and SEO—you position yourself as an invaluable asset to companies, opening the door to high-paying roles or lucrative freelance opportunities.
Building a High-Paying Career in Technical Writing
Establishing a high-paying career in technical writing can follow two primary paths: freelancing or full-time employment. Each path offers distinct advantages, challenges, and income potentials. Understanding these options helps you determine which route aligns best with your goals.
1. Freelancing vs. Full-Time Employment
Freelancing
Freelance technical writers enjoy the flexibility to set their own rates, choose clients, and determine their workload. However, they also face challenges like irregular income and the need to constantly seek new clients. The upside is that freelancers often earn more per hour than their salaried counterparts. According to Upwork’s Freelance Workforce Report (2022), top-earning technical writers on freelance platforms charge between $50 to $150 per hour. With long-term projects, this can quickly translate into six-figure annual earnings.
Advantages of Freelancing:
- Control over workload: Freelancers decide how many clients and projects they take on, which allows for significant income scalability.
- Diverse opportunities: Freelancers can work across various industries, from software to healthcare, allowing them to specialize in high-paying niches like SaaS, cybersecurity, or API documentation.
Real-life Example: John Smith, a freelance technical writer specializing in blockchain technology, charges $120/hour. Working on long-term projects, he earns over $200,000/year. Freelancers like John can specialize in high-demand niches, allowing them to earn significantly more than average technical writers.
Challenges of Freelancing:
- Income instability: Freelancing income can fluctuate depending on the availability of projects. Some months may be highly profitable, while others can be slower, especially during industry shifts.
- Client acquisition: Freelancers must market themselves and consistently secure new clients, which takes time and effort. Networking and building a personal brand become critical.
Full-Time Employment
On the other hand, full-time employment offers stability and benefits such as health insurance and paid leave. According to Glassdoor (2023), the average salary for a full-time technical writer in the U.S. is $75,000/year. However, this figure varies depending on the industry and the writer’s experience level. Senior technical writers at major tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft can earn upwards of $150,000/year.
Advantages of Full-Time Employment:
- Income stability: Full-time positions offer consistent, reliable income with opportunities for salary increases over time.
- Career growth: Technical writers in full-time roles often have access to mentorship, resources for professional development, and opportunities for advancement to managerial or specialized positions, such as content strategists or documentation managers.
Real-life Example: Jane Doe, a senior technical writer at Google, earns over $160,000/year due to her years of experience and specialization in cloud services documentation. Full-time positions at major tech companies also come with stock options and performance bonuses, further boosting total compensation.
Challenges of Full-Time Employment:
- Limited flexibility: Full-time employees often have less control over the types of projects they work on and the freedom to diversify income streams. Their work is typically tied to the needs of a single company.
- Slower income growth: While full-time employment provides stability, it may take longer to reach the income levels achievable through freelancing, particularly for writers who prefer niche fields.

2. Building a Portfolio
A compelling portfolio is the cornerstone of a high-paying technical writing career, regardless of whether you choose freelancing or full-time employment. Your portfolio should reflect the diversity of your skills, showcasing a range of writing types—from user manuals and installation guides to API documentation and white papers.
A strong portfolio helps potential clients or employers assess your expertise and determine whether you’re a good fit for their project or company.
How to Build your Portfolio?
- Diversify your work: Include different types of documents (e.g., software documentation, API guides, technical blogs, and white papers). This shows versatility and appeals to a broader audience of potential employers or clients.
- Highlight niche expertise: If you’ve written for specific industries like fintech, SaaS, or healthcare, emphasize this in your portfolio. Clients in these industries typically pay more for specialized knowledge.
- Use real-world examples: If you’ve contributed to high-profile projects, include links or excerpts. Clients and employers are more likely to hire writers with demonstrated experience in relevant industries.
Real-life Example: A technical writer with a robust portfolio of API documentation and cloud services might land contracts with high-paying fintech companies or tech startups that require precise, scalable documentation. These sectors are often willing to pay premium rates for expert-level documentation.
Where to Build and Showcase a Portfolio?
- Personal Website: A personal website allows you to control your brand and showcase your portfolio to potential clients or employers. Consider integrating a blog where you discuss industry insights to demonstrate thought leadership.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a valuable platform for showcasing your work, connecting with industry professionals, and attracting potential clients or employers. Ensure your profile is optimized with keywords relevant to your technical writing niche.
- Freelance Platforms: For freelancers, platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr allow you to upload portfolios directly to your profile. These platforms make it easy for clients to assess your skills before contacting you.
Monetizing Technical Writing: Multiple Income Streams
Technical writing offers diverse opportunities for monetization, far beyond the traditional full-time employment model. Writers today can leverage freelancing platforms, create passive income through licensing, or even teach their skills through courses. Let’s explore how you can maximize income by tapping into multiple streams.
1. Freelancing
Freelancing is a popular avenue for technical writers, offering flexibility and control over rates and workload. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer provide access to a global marketplace, enabling writers to find clients across industries and skill levels.
Upwork Data:
On Upwork, technical writers typically earn between $50 to $100 per hour, depending on their expertise and industry focus. This means that with steady work, a freelance technical writer can make upwards of $100,000 per year. Technical writers with specialized skills, such as API documentation or cloud computing, can command even higher rates, allowing them to scale income rapidly.
Example: Freelancers who focus on niche areas like cybersecurity or blockchain technology can charge as much as $150 per hour, based on recent data from Upwork’s Freelancer Earnings Report (2023).
Real-life Success:
One example of freelance success is Tom Johnson, a well-known technical writer who specializes in developer documentation. Through his blog, “I’d Rather Be Writing,” Tom has built a reputation that allows him to charge premium rates for API and software documentation, earning a six-figure income annually. He has also expanded his income streams through consulting and speaking engagements.
Platforms and Earnings:
- Upwork: As a leading freelancing platform, Upwork reports that technical writers consistently earn $50-$100 per hour, with experienced freelancers often charging over $100/hour.
- Fiverr: Although known for lower-cost gigs, technical writers offering specialized documentation or training services can command premium prices.
- Freelancer: Freelance technical writers can also find work on Freelancer, where top earners report six-figure annual incomes.

2. Full-Time Jobs
Many technical writers choose the security and stability of full-time employment. Companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and Adobe regularly hire technical writers to document software products, internal systems, and processes.
Salary Data:
Based on Payscale (2023), the median salary for technical writers in tech companies ranges from $80,000 to $130,000/year, depending on experience and specialization. Senior roles, such as Documentation Managers, often exceed $160,000/year, with additional bonuses and stock options provided by larger tech firms.
Example: A senior technical writer at Microsoft working on cloud and AI documentation can earn upwards of $150,000/year. As employees gain more specialized knowledge of proprietary systems and tools, their value to the company increases, leading to higher salary brackets.
Industries Hiring Technical Writers:
- Tech and SaaS: Companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft regularly hire technical writers to create developer and user documentation.
- Healthcare: Documentation for medical devices, pharmaceutical products, and regulatory compliance requires precise and accurate writing, making this a lucrative sector for technical writers.
- Engineering & Manufacturing: Writers in these sectors often earn higher-than-average salaries due to the complexity and regulatory requirements of the material they produce.
3. Licensing Content
One of the more passive forms of income for technical writers is content licensing. Writers can develop templates, eBooks, guides, or documentation tools and sell them through licensing agreements, earning royalties over time.
How Licensing Works:
For instance, a writer could create an in-depth guide on API Documentation Best Practices and license it to software development teams, training organizations, or even educational platforms. Each time the guide is sold or distributed, the writer earns royalties.
Example: A technical writer who sells an eBook on “How to Write API Documentation” could generate $10,000 to $50,000/year in passive income from royalties alone, depending on audience size and market demand.
Platforms for Selling Licensed Content:
- Amazon Kindle: Writers can publish technical eBooks on Kindle, reaching a global audience.
- Gumroad: A popular platform for selling digital products like guides and templates, allowing writers to monetize their work directly.
Data Insight: According to Gumroad’s Creator Earnings Report (2022), top sellers in niche fields such as tech and development consistently earn $20,000+ per year from licensed content.
4. Teaching and Courses
Teaching technical writing has become an increasingly popular way to monetize expertise. Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and Coursera provide global access to learners looking to enhance their writing skills, particularly in technical fields.
Earnings Potential:
Creating a comprehensive course on Technical Writing for SaaS or API Documentation can potentially earn between $10,000 to $50,000/year, depending on audience reach, pricing, and marketing efforts.
Example: Instructors like Joseph Casabona on Udemy have successfully launched technical writing and web development courses that have earned them tens of thousands of dollars annually. With a growing demand for technical writing skills, the course creation model is becoming a reliable way to generate supplementary income.
Platforms to Sell Courses:
- Udemy: Offers a large, global platform for selling online courses. Successful instructors report six-figure incomes from teaching.
- Teachable: Allows creators to build and sell courses directly from their own website, giving them more control over pricing and marketing.

Scaling Your Income as a Technical Writer
The key to maximizing your earning potential as a technical writer lies in the ability to scale your services and establish a robust personal brand. By expanding beyond traditional writing work, technical writers can diversify their income streams and reach six-figure or even million-dollar earnings. Here’s how:
1. Diversify Services
Diversification is one of the most effective ways to increase your income as a technical writer. By offering a broader range of services, such as consulting, training, or even creating proprietary documentation tools, you not only expand your reach but also cater to different business needs. Many successful technical writers start with freelancing and then transition into offering additional services that allow them to scale their operations.
Service Diversification Examples:
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Consulting: As you gain expertise in technical writing, particularly in niche areas like SaaS or cloud services, companies may seek your advice on how to structure their documentation or optimize processes. Consultants can charge significantly more per hour than writers—often $200+ per hour—by offering strategy-level guidance.
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Training & Workshops: Many technical writers offer corporate training sessions on documentation best practices or software tool usage. This is especially useful in industries where teams need to standardize documentation processes. Corporate training workshops can yield earnings of $5,000 to $15,000 per session, depending on the client and scope.
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Product Development: Some writers have developed software documentation solutions or writing tools that they license or sell. By creating tools that automate or simplify the writing process, you can earn passive income through product sales or licensing.
How to Start Diversifying:
- Assess your existing skills: What complementary services can you offer based on your current expertise? This could be consulting on content strategy or providing SEO services for technical documentation.
- Identify industry needs: Niche industries like blockchain, fintech, or cybersecurity often require specialized documentation. Expanding into these areas not only allows you to charge more but also opens up opportunities for consulting.
- Package services: Bundle your writing, consulting, and training services into packages that offer more value to clients while justifying higher rates.
By expanding into these areas, technical writers can increase their earning potential exponentially and establish long-term business relationships with clients.
2. Build a Personal Brand
A strong personal brand can be one of the most powerful tools for scaling your income. By establishing yourself as an expert in technical writing or a niche subject area, you can attract higher-paying clients and additional opportunities such as speaking engagements or guest blogging.
Why a Personal Brand Matters:
- Client Trust: When you build a recognizable personal brand, clients are more likely to trust you with high-value projects. This can lead to recurring work and higher rates.
- Thought Leadership: By consistently sharing valuable content—whether through a blog, social media, or speaking at industry events—you position yourself as a thought leader. This can attract more significant opportunities, including partnerships or consulting roles.
- Premium Pricing: A well-established personal brand allows you to charge premium rates for your services. Clients pay more when they perceive you as an expert who can deliver unmatched quality and insight.
Steps to Build a Personal Brand:
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Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: Share your insights on technical writing, industry trends, or tools that you use. Writers like Tom Johnson of “I’d Rather Be Writing” have built highly successful personal brands by offering free resources and expert opinions.
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Leverage Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are ideal for engaging with fellow technical writers, industry professionals, and potential clients. Share case studies, best practices, and lessons from your work to build credibility.
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Public Speaking: Attend or speak at conferences related to technical writing, SaaS documentation, or the industries you specialize in. Becoming a recognized speaker boosts your visibility and creates new opportunities for collaboration and consulting.
By focusing on diversifying services and building a strong personal brand, technical writers can scale their income well beyond traditional freelancing or full-time roles. These strategies provide a sustainable path to six-figure earnings or more, positioning you as an expert and leader in the field.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While technical writing offers lucrative opportunities, it also presents a unique set of challenges. From managing a demanding workload to staying updated on rapidly evolving technologies, technical writers need to address these obstacles strategically to succeed. Below, we’ll explore some of the key challenges technical writers face and practical solutions for overcoming them.
1. Managing Workload
Balancing multiple projects and clients is one of the most common challenges faced by freelance technical writers. Managing various deadlines, ensuring consistent quality, and maintaining communication with clients can lead to burnout if not handled effectively.
Challenges:
- Multiple Deadlines: Freelancers often juggle several clients, each with its own set of deadlines. When projects overlap or require rapid turnaround, it can become overwhelming.
- Task Prioritization: Without proper planning, urgent tasks can overshadow long-term goals, leading to missed opportunities or delayed projects.
Solutions:
- Project Management Tools: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Notion allow you to organize tasks, set deadlines, and track project progress in one place. These platforms help you visually manage workload and ensure that no deadlines slip through the cracks.
- Time-Blocking: Dedicate specific time slots to different projects each day, avoiding multitasking, which can reduce productivity and quality.
- Client Communication: Be transparent with clients about your workload. If you foresee any delays, communicate them early to set expectations. This builds trust and avoids rushed, low-quality work.
Pro Tip: Implementing the Pomodoro Technique, where you work in short, focused bursts with breaks in between, can help maintain energy levels and productivity throughout the day.
2. Continuous Learning
The technical writing field is closely tied to industries that evolve rapidly, such as software development, blockchain, and AI. Staying updated on the latest trends, tools, and technologies is essential to maintain your relevance and deliver up-to-date documentation.
Challenges:
- Evolving Technologies: New frameworks, tools, and methodologies regularly emerge in sectors like SaaS and cloud computing. Writers who fail to keep pace may find it harder to produce high-quality, accurate documentation.
- Skill Gaps: As industries adopt new practices like DevOps or microservices architecture, writers without these technical insights might lose competitive advantage.
Solutions:
- Regular Learning: Dedicate time each week to learning. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses in emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and API development.
- Stay Informed: Follow blogs, webinars, and tech podcasts in your industry to stay updated on new trends. Subscribing to sites like TechCrunch, Hacker News, or specialized blogs like Tom Johnson’s I’d Rather Be Writing can provide valuable industry insights.
- Hands-on Practice: Participate in tech communities like GitHub or Stack Overflow to engage with practical problems and solutions. This can keep your technical knowledge sharp and relevant.
Pro Tip: Develop niche expertise by focusing on a specific area, such as API documentation or cloud infrastructure. Specialization allows you to command higher rates and differentiate yourself in a crowded marketplace.
3. Building Client Trust
For freelancers, building and maintaining trust with clients is crucial for long-term success. Without a reputation for reliability, technical writers can struggle to secure high-paying, recurring clients. Trust is built over time, through consistent communication, high-quality work, and strong client relationships.
Challenges:
- Initial Hesitancy: New clients may hesitate to hire you without a proven track record or substantial portfolio.
- Retention: Even with existing clients, maintaining long-term relationships can be challenging if communication or quality falters.
Solutions:
- Deliver Consistently: Always meet deadlines, and if possible, exceed expectations. Over-delivering on quality and timeliness creates a strong foundation of trust.
- Create Clear Contracts: Set clear expectations by defining the scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms upfront in a formal contract. This reduces potential misunderstandings and fosters professionalism.
- Client Communication: Regular check-ins with clients can ensure you’re aligned with their needs and expectations. This could involve providing weekly status updates or promptly addressing questions or concerns.
Pro Tip: Ask for client testimonials after successfully completing a project. A portfolio of satisfied clients will serve as social proof for future clients, making it easier to build credibility and attract high-paying opportunities.
4. Handling Rejection or Criticism
Rejection and criticism are part of every writer’s journey. Whether it’s a client rejecting a proposal or receiving critical feedback on your work, handling these situations gracefully is key to long-term success.
Challenges:
- Client Rejection: Freelancers may experience rejection in the form of lost project bids or clients opting for another writer.
- Feedback: Receiving negative feedback, especially for a piece that required significant effort, can feel demotivating.
Solutions:
- Embrace Feedback: View criticism as an opportunity for growth. When a client provides feedback, take it constructively and apply it to improve your future work. Respond to feedback professionally, and make changes as necessary.
- Persist Through Rejection: Rejections are inevitable, but they provide an opportunity to reflect and refine your approach. Reach out to clients for feedback on why they went another route, and use this insight to improve your future pitches or proposals.
Pro Tip: Implement a continuous feedback loop for yourself. Regularly ask for feedback from clients during the course of a project, not just at the end. This ensures that you’re meeting expectations throughout the project lifecycle, making it less likely that major revisions or negative feedback will surface later.
By recognizing and addressing these challenges, you can better manage your workload, stay ahead of industry trends, and build lasting client relationships. Success in technical writing comes not just from skill, but from effective problem-solving and continuous improvement in how you work. Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments or expansions!
Conclusion
Building a high-income career in technical writing requires more than just strong writing skills—it demands strategic thinking, diversification, and a focus on continuous growth. By offering complementary services such as consulting or training, expanding into high-demand industries, and creating a strong personal brand, you can unlock multiple income streams and scale your earnings to six figures or beyond. The flexibility to work as a freelancer or pursue full-time employment, combined with opportunities to monetize content through licensing and courses, makes technical writing a dynamic and lucrative career choice. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, the strategies outlined in this blog provide a clear roadmap to achieving financial success in this field.
People Also Ask For:
While having a technical background is beneficial, it’s not always necessary. Start by learning the basics of the industry you want to write for—whether it’s software, healthcare, or manufacturing. Take free courses on platforms like Udemy or Coursera to get familiar with technical concepts and tools. You can also begin by writing for smaller projects to gain experience and gradually build your portfolio.
Freelance technical writers on platforms like Upwork can earn between $50 to $150 per hour, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the work. On average, a freelance technical writer working consistently can make upwards of $100,000 per year. Specialized writers in fields like cybersecurity or API documentation can command even higher rates.
Start by working on a variety of small projects, either for freelance clients or through self-initiated work. You can create sample documentation, user manuals, or even blog posts on technical topics. Aim to showcase a range of work, from basic guides to more complex technical documentation. Over time, as you take on more challenging projects, your portfolio will evolve to reflect your growing expertise.
Yes, technical writers can generate passive income through content licensing, selling templates, or creating courses. For example, you could write and sell eBooks, templates for technical documentation, or instructional guides. Platforms like Gumroad, Amazon Kindle, and Udemy allow technical writers to monetize their work and earn royalties over time.
Industries like cybersecurity, SaaS, and healthcare tend to offer the highest salaries for technical writers. Due to the complexity and regulatory demands, writers in these sectors often earn more. For instance, technical writers in cybersecurity can earn upwards of $120,000 per year, while those in healthcare or SaaS may earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.