Books and Resources to Start Strong
Before you invest in equipment, invest in knowledge. These books will teach you the fundamentals of technical writing, help you understand your market, and show you how to build a sustainable business. Reading widely in your field prevents costly mistakes and accelerates your ability to serve clients at a professional level.
Technical Writing Today by Krista Van Laan
This book gives you a realistic overview of modern technical writing work, from documentation to content strategy. It covers the actual skills clients expect and the business side of freelancing. You’ll understand what makes technical writers valuable and how to position yourself competitively.
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Docs Like Code by Anne Gentle
This book teaches you how modern documentation is built, stored, and versioned using the same tools software developers use. Understanding this workflow is essential because many of your clients will expect you to work with Git, Markdown, and static site generators. It’s not optional knowledge anymore.
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The Business of Technical Writing by Kieran Morgan
This focuses specifically on running a technical writing business, including pricing your services, finding clients, and managing projects. Morgan covers the business structure you need, how to calculate your rates, and what to charge for different types of work.
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Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows
Documentation exists within larger systems—software architecture, user journeys, business processes. This book teaches you to think systemically, which makes you a better writer and more valuable consultant. Your clients will recognize this perspective immediately.
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Equipment You Need
Unlike many service businesses, technical writing doesn’t require expensive equipment. Your main tool is your computer, but you do need specific software and a few supporting items to work professionally with clients. The good news is most tools have free or low-cost versions to start with.
Computer and Hardware
- Laptop or desktop: A reliable machine with at least 8GB RAM and an SSD. You need enough power to run documentation tools, version control software, and multiple browsers simultaneously without lag. You’ll often need to preview your work across different environments.
- Second monitor: Boosts productivity significantly. You can reference source material on one screen while writing on the other. This becomes essential when you’re working with developer documentation or API references.
- Mechanical keyboard: You’re typing all day. A quality keyboard reduces strain and improves your pace. Look for one that matches your preferred switches and has good reviews from writers.
- External hard drive or SSD: For backing up client work and project archives. Cloud backup is essential, but a physical backup adds an extra layer of protection.
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Software and Subscriptions
- Code editor: VS Code (free) or Sublime Text ($80 one-time). This is where you’ll write in Markdown, reStructuredText, and other markup languages. VS Code integrates with Git and has excellent extensions for documentation work.
- Git version control: Free. You need to understand and use Git because most clients do. Set up a GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket account immediately.
- Documentation generator: Sphinx (free), MkDocs (free), or Doxygen (free). These tools convert your plain-text documentation into polished websites. Most are open-source.
- API documentation tool: Postman (free tier available) for testing and documenting APIs. This skill is directly billable to SaaS and software companies.
- Screenshot and screen recording tool: Snagit ($50 one-time or $8/month subscription) or Greenshot (free). You’ll need clean, annotated screenshots and screen recordings constantly. Snagit is worth the investment for professional output.
- Grammarly Premium: $12/month or $139/year. A non-negotiable tool for any writer. It catches errors you’ll miss and improves consistency. Use it on everything before sending to clients.
- Microsoft Office 365 or Google Workspace: If you need to work with templates, forms, or client-provided documents. Many clients still use Word or Excel for specifications.
- Project management tool: Free tier of Asana, Monday.com, or Notion to track your own projects and client deliverables. Keeps you organized as your workload grows.
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Office and Environment
- Desk and chair: You’ll spend 6-8 hours daily sitting. An ergonomic chair ($150-300) and sturdy desk are health investments, not luxuries. Your back will thank you.
- Desk lamp: Good lighting reduces eye strain and improves focus during long writing sessions.
- Headphones: Quality noise-canceling headphones help you concentrate and block distractions during client calls. They’re also essential for watching tutorial videos and technical demos.
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What to Buy First vs Later
Start lean. You don’t need everything at once, and some tools become clear only after you land your first clients.
- First (before taking clients): Reliable computer, VS Code, Git account, Grammarly Premium, Snagit or equivalent screenshot tool, ergonomic chair, desk lamp, and external backup drive.
- After your first 2-3 projects: Second monitor, mechanical keyboard, project management tool, and Postman (if clients need API documentation).
- When revenue supports it: Specialized documentation platforms like Confluence or ReadTheDocs Enterprise, premium API tools, additional software licenses, or upgraded hardware.
- Never rush: Expensive static site generators, premium design tools (unless you’re also designing), or enterprise software licenses. Use free alternatives until a paying client explicitly requires something specific.
New vs Used Equipment
Buy your computer new. Used laptops and desktops can have hidden battery issues, hard drive problems, or shortened remaining lifespan. Your computer is your primary tool—it needs to be reliable. A three-year-old refurbished machine from a reputable seller is acceptable if you’re cost-conscious, but avoid heavily discounted used computers from unknown sources.
Other hardware is different. Buy chairs, desks, and monitors used if possible. Check local Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or office liquidation sales. Office furniture holds up well, and you can save 50% or more. Mechanical keyboards are nearly indestructible—used ones are fine. Skip used external hard drives due to wear and failure risk; buy those new. Software always buy through official channels—no secondhand licenses.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Fast delivery, good return policies, and extensive reviews. Use the links above.
- B&H Photo: Excellent for cameras, screens, and specialized tech. Better prices on some items than Amazon.
- Best Buy: Good for trying out keyboards and chairs in person before buying. Price-match policy available.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Best for used furniture, monitors, and desks. Negotiate and inspect before buying.
- Local office supply stores: For desk accessories, lamps, and ergonomic products. Often have loyalty programs for ongoing purchases.
- Software direct: Buy Snagit directly from TechSmith, Office from Microsoft, and other software from vendors’ websites. You get better support and don’t rely on third-party sellers.
- GitHub, VS Code marketplace, and open-source repositories: All free. No retailer needed.