The first thing a writer needs to be able to do is realize that his or her writing is part of “a continuous communication process.” (Faigley) Once they realize this, they will realize that it is even more important to carefully analyze their audience. According to the social perspective, a writer’s basic language, as well as content, will change depending on the writer’s audience. A writer needs to be able to analyze his/her audience correctly, and once analyzed, to be able to adapt his/her writing to fit the audience. For example, a scientist writing for a group of scientists will use language that the normal individual will have trouble understanding, but a group of teenagers may use slang language that is difficult for a group of scientists to understand. It is also important to analyze the culture and background of one’s audience. These aspects of writing are what make writing a social activity. Even though writers are not speaking verbally they are speaking to someone/people.
Another important ability a writer needs is the ability to use and incorporate technology in their writing. Faigley asserts that there is no distinction between the importance of the text and the importance of the technology used to create the text. This technological use includes charts, graphs, illustrations, etc. that are generated by a computer or some other form of technology to help illustrate points in the text.

Jack Selzer convinces his reader that his analysis of Kenneth Nelson’s writing processes are based on extensive, careful observation by writing a review of his investigation which included collecting pieces of his work, observing him while he worked, interviewing him extensively during his writing processes, and analyzing his finished work. Jack observes Nelson’s work environment, and even goes so far as to suggest changes so that Nelson will explain why he has his work environment the way that he does. Jack observes Nelson writing in said work environment, and then interviews him extensively. After each writing session, Jack asks Nelson to answer a series of written questions for a tape recorder.
Jack also gives the reader a detailed analysis of his observations and findings. He found that Nelson spent 80% of his time inventing material and arranging it. He also found that Nelson reused material he had previously written for other documents. He discusses how Nelson rarely changes his outline once he begins to write, that he writes his first draft on paper, and that he spends less that 1/5 of his time drafting. Finally, Nelson spends less than 5% of his time revising his work. Revising for him consists simply of correcting spelling, grammatical errors, and deleting any words and sentences not needed, as Nelson’s work is very concise. Thus, Nelson spends most of his time on inventing and arranging and creating his outline. Also, Jack observes that Nelson is a linear writer as he rarely revisits a stage once he has completed it. For example, once he reaches the revision stage he makes simple spelling and grammar corrections, but does not change content or rewrite.

PWE Jobs

There are many different types of jobs in the growing field of professional writing. A technical writer writes a variety of documents that support products. In the field of science technical writers write research reports and information describing new technology, how to use and maintain it, etc. Analysts prepare many different things, such as: analyses, documents, presentations, briefings, material for educational/outreach programs. Medical writers organize and prepare documents that include many things such as charts, graphs, tables, tests, and analyses. Professional writers working in the communications field write and update content for company websites, newsletters, pamphlets, etc. I would say that any professional writer has to have good organizational skills. Some professional writers working in specific fields, such as science and business, need some education in their respective field. Technical writers also need good ethics in deciding what to publish, the ability to work under pressure, the ability to express their topics in a clear, concise manner, and a creative ability. It’s also useful to have some knowledge of electronic publishing, graphics, and animation, as well as wireless communication and electronic devices as they will be needed for communication and the transmission of work.
I’m interested in the communications and Public Relations aspects of professional writing since those are two of my minors. Public Relations experts need to be able to write project proposals which may include charts and graphs, etc., as well as campaigns to build a company’s reputation or rebuild it in the event of bad publicity. Communications experts produce a lot of material for company websites, newsletters, pamphlets, commercials, etc. These are things I hope to be doing after I receive my degree. I would like to learn more about developing proposals, presentations, campaigns, and briefings. I would also like to learn more about writing for informational sources such as, websites and newsletters.