Good reads: The art of writing

Writing is a fundamental tool for communication, learning, and influence in engineering.

1. "Writing Is Thinking” by Andrew Bosworth

   • Boz dives into how writing is not just a method of communication but a way to sharpen your thinking. An article I personally come back to multiple times for its insights on how articulating your thoughts can lead to clearer decision-making and stronger problem-solving skills.

2. "Undervalued Software Engineering Skills: Writing Well" by Gergely Orosz

   • Gergely offers insights into the iterative process of writing well, emphasizing the importance of practice, feedback, and improvement. This article sheds light on how honing your writing skills can significantly enhance your communication, ultimately elevating your team's performance.

3. "Write about what you learn. It pushes you to understand topics better" by Addy Osmani

   • Addy advocates for writing as a learning tool, sharing how the act of writing can consolidate knowledge and foster innovation. He illustrates with personal anecdotes how explaining concepts in writing has solidified his own understanding and expertise in complex subjects.

4. "Some tactics for writing in public" by Julia Evans

   • Julia shares her personal journey and strategies for writing in public spaces, tackling the fears that often hold many back. Her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to influence and contribute to the broader tech community. Julia emphasizes the role of vulnerability in growth, encouraging engineers to share their learning process with the world.

5. "Writing is Thinking" by Sally Kerrigan

   • In this brilliant read Sally explores the intrinsic link between writing and thinking, arguing that effective writing can lead to more precise solutions. She extends the conversation to how writing facilitates a deeper understanding of challenges, fostering a culture of clarity.

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The power of writing extends far beyond mere documentation or just a response; it is a medium through which we can clarify our thoughts, share our knowledge, and connect with others on a meaningful level.