What role does research play in technical writing?

Research plays a crucial role in technical writing by providing accurate information and evidence to support claims made within the document. The integrity and credibility of a technical piece are often rooted in well-sourced data. When technical writers conduct research, they gather relevant facts, statistics, and examples that bolster their narrative, ensuring that their writing is informative and trustworthy.

Accurate research not only enhances the document's authority but also allows the reader to make informed decisions based on the data presented. Furthermore, it helps in addressing potential counterarguments or questions the audience may have, thereby strengthening the overall argument or explanation laid out in the writing.

In contrast to this understanding of research, some perspectives mistakenly see it as adding unnecessary length to documents or serving solely to cite academic sources. However, effective technical writing values conciseness and relevance, ensuring that any research included directly contributes to the clarity and purpose of the document.