Syed Ali 

Crystal Rodwell  

Writing for Engineers  

October 27, 2019 

Reflection for the Technical Description 

The technical description was surprisingly an enjoyable experience to write. Although the work was difficult and finding the exact information was a pain, I was given the liberty to work on something I enjoy. From the day I started playing basketball, I have kept up with performance reviews of basketball sneakers. The Nike Adapt BB is no different as I have been familiar with it since the day it came out. I was already familiar with the materials used and the composition of many of its components as I have held them in hand and have even experienced similar cushion setups. The only part of the shoes that I had some trouble understanding was the motor. But however, with my knowledge of electric circuits and the many components that would go into that type of system, with some research I was able to figure out the different parts.  

Although the familiarity made things easier, I still needed to produce a comprehensive description of my product. I began with recognizing that this description could be considered a manual for whoever is reading it. The audience of this writing will be people who want to know exactly how the sneaker works to the dot. As a result, I began by listing all the components of the sneaker that are important to the mechanism. The components include the motor, the upper and the cushioning, all pivotal in ensuring safety and consistency of the project. I then began researching each component and finding diagrams and pictures that accurately depict each of the components. I realized that the Technical Description wouldn’t require persuasive writing or imagery, so I was able to keep the tone and diction formal. This made things much easier as I didn’t need to overstate anything.  

Writing this paper taught me the tough work that goes into the invention of anything. There are so many components to even the simplest of objects. Although these components are small, they are essential to the mechanism, therefore it’s necessary to explain them in detail. I also learned that photos and diagrams are very essential to any description as a manual should never allow its readers to rely on their imagination to come to any conclusions regarding the product. They should have images clearly showing each component.  

I feel like of all the course outcomes, my ability to draft and revise was most improved in writing the technical description. I’ve noticed that I was able to write a solid draft in one sitting when it came to the technical description. Although, at the time I felt that my writing was flawless, I was able to make solid revisions that improved the overall flow of my writing. The primary revision was the division of the motor section into more components. Originally, I had one section that encompassed the entire motor. After revising my paper, I realized that each sub-component of the motor requires its own full on section as it has so many complications.  

I feel like knowing how to write a technical description is very essential to my major as a computer engineer as I will have to explain everything I build or contribute. Doing it in a low risk academic environment gives me the ability to get used to writing a description while growing as a writer.  

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