Three Hacks for Better Technical Writing

Technical writing often gets a bad reputation—too dense, too complex, and often unreadable. But effective technical communication isn’t about showcasing expertise with jargon-heavy reports. It’s about clarity, precision, and impact.

Whether you're writing research papers, executive memos, or data science reports, your ability to communicate effectively determines how useful your insights are.

In this article, I explore three powerful tools that can transform your technical writing:

• LaTeX – A free typesetting system that makes complex documents look professional.
• Readability Metrics – A method to measure and improve clarity using the Flesch-Kincaid scale.
• Weasel Word Detection – A technique pioneered by Amazon to eliminate vague, meaningless phrases from writing.

Let’s dive in.

1. LaTeX: Beautiful Documents, Effortlessly

What is it?

LaTeX (pronounced “LAY-tech” or “LAH-tech”) is a typesetting system that originated in academia. Unlike Word or Google Docs, LaTeX is a markup language that separates content from formatting, allowing you to focus on writing while the software handles layout, equations, and references.

Why use it?

• Crystal-clear formatting – Ideal for papers, presentations, and reports with mathematical equations.
• Automatic citation management – No more messy reference lists.
• Code-friendly – Perfect for documenting algorithms, equations, and programming logic.

How to get started?

• Use Overleaf, a free online LaTeX editor—no installation required.
• Start with templates for research papers, CVs, and technical reports.
• Learn the basics: commands like \section{}, \textbf{}, and \begin{equation} make a big difference.

Example Use Case:

A machine learning engineer writing a research paper needs to include formulas, inline citations, and code snippets. Instead of fighting with Word’s formatting, they use LaTeX to create a clean, structured document that looks professional without manual adjustments.

Here are links to a short (13 minute) LaTex Introduction and a full tutorial:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkojsBJ-S-g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydOTMQC7np0

2. Readability Metrics: Making Complex Ideas Easy to Digest

What is it?

The Flesch-Kincaid Readability Scale is a simple formula that measures how easy a piece of writing is to read. Originally developed in the 1940s for the U.S. Navy to help ensure sailors could easily get the information they needed to operate complex shipboard systems, it is now widely used to refine legal documents, educational materials, and website copy.

Why use it?

• Instant clarity check – Helps determine whether writing is accessible to its intended audience.
• Improves engagement – Simpler language keeps readers interested.
• Eliminates unnecessary complexity – Shorter sentences and active voice improve readability.

How to get started?

• Use Microsoft Word’s built-in readability checker (Under Editor → Document Stats).
• Try Hemingway App, an online tool that highlights complex sentences and suggests simpler alternatives.
• Aim for a Flesch-Kincaid score between 50-70 (the sweet spot for technical but accessible writing).

Example Use Case:

A data scientist writing an internal report on AI bias realizes their readability score is 34 (very difficult to read). By shortening sentences, using active voice, and replacing jargon with simpler terms, they improve readability to 60—making it easier for business stakeholders to understand and act on.

3. Weasel Word Detection: Removing Meaningless Fluff

What is it?

“Weasel words” are vague, imprecise, or inflated phrases that weaken writing. Amazon developed an internal AI tool to detect and eliminate them from technical documents.

Why use it?

• Forces clarity – Ensures every word adds value.
• Removes ambiguity – Decision-makers need facts, not hedging.
• Strengthens authority – Confident writing builds trust.

How to get the same functionality without Amazon's tool?

• Use Grammarly Premium—it highlights vague words and suggests replacements.
• Try Writer.com’s Clarity Checker, a free tool that scans text for overused phrases.
• Manually search for weak qualifiers like: "Generally speaking..." → What does "generally" mean? Be specific. "Somewhat improved..." → Compared to what? By how much? "Many studies suggest..." → Which studies? Cite them.

How to get started?

• Manually scan writing for vague qualifiers (e.g., “might,” “probably,” “somewhat”).
• Use AI-based editing tools to catch hedging and unclear phrases.
• Replace weak phrases with specific, actionable statements.

Example Use Case:

A software engineer writing a product performance report originally writes: "The new update somewhat improves processing speeds and is likely to reduce lag in most cases."

After removing weasel words, the sentence becomes: "The new update improves processing speeds by 18% and reduces lag in 92% of test cases."

The revised version is clear, data-driven, and actionable.

Tying It All Together: Produce Writing That Gets Results

These three tools—LaTeX, readability metrics, and weasel word detection—can transform technical writing from dull and impenetrable to clear, compelling, and actionable.

• LaTeX makes documents polished and professional.
• Readability metrics ensure writing is accessible.
• Weasel word detection forces precision and confidence.

In fast-moving industries, the ability to communicate clearly and efficiently is a competitive advantage. Whether writing for executives, engineers, or general audiences, these hacks will help ideas land faster and with greater impact.