Troubleshooting Procedures Technical Writing Lessons That Challenge

This paper proposes introducing instruction and assignments on the preparation of troubleshooting documentation into technical writing and communication courses. Exercises that ask students to create procedures to aid readers in problem solving and the troubleshooting of technological systems and equipment can provide students with challenging and relevant practice in creating audience centered and helpful documents. A hypothetical technical writing machine and other vehicles for teaching this content to students who may have different technical backgrounds are presented.