Writing: Basic Pointers, and Words of Encouragement
So, now you know how to get into the field of mechanical engineering, lets talk about how to write like one. First, you can't. Sorry. You can't start writing like a mechanical engineer, until you know what you are writing about. Most of your writing is going to be technical analyses. This means, until you learn the technical aspects of engineering, you aren't going to be writing about the technical. But fear not, there are other things you can do, even though you cannot yet write like a mechanical engineer. When people are getting ready to spend large amounts of money, which is what engineers do when they design something, is make people spend money, those people want to know the engineer behind the report can communicate properly. If you are handed a report that is full of grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and other problems, are you likely to spend potentially millions of dollars with the person? The answer to that question is no.
It is very important that you have the fundamentals of writing and communication correct. Take writing classes early and often, to sharpen and improve your writing skills. Treat everything you write, from emails to friends, to reports for school, as an opportunity to perfect your ever expanding knowledge of the English language. Get help, from local writing centers, such as the Writing Center at Salt Lake Community College. Submit your writing to peers, for review and edits. You can even do this with work emails. You can never have enough experience in proper communication. From the first year freshman, to the post-doctorate professional, your writing career will never slow down.
When you get to the point that you begin to understand the technical aspects of engineering, then you can begin to write reports. You will have plenty of practice on this, as most universities will require that you submit reports of your findings in some aspect or another. Remember though, when these professors examine your work, they will not only be looking for proper figures and facts; they will be checking to make sure you have a solid foundation of writing.
It is very important that you have the fundamentals of writing and communication correct. Take writing classes early and often, to sharpen and improve your writing skills. Treat everything you write, from emails to friends, to reports for school, as an opportunity to perfect your ever expanding knowledge of the English language. Get help, from local writing centers, such as the Writing Center at Salt Lake Community College. Submit your writing to peers, for review and edits. You can even do this with work emails. You can never have enough experience in proper communication. From the first year freshman, to the post-doctorate professional, your writing career will never slow down.
When you get to the point that you begin to understand the technical aspects of engineering, then you can begin to write reports. You will have plenty of practice on this, as most universities will require that you submit reports of your findings in some aspect or another. Remember though, when these professors examine your work, they will not only be looking for proper figures and facts; they will be checking to make sure you have a solid foundation of writing.
