Navigating the Technical Writer Intern Application at Google: Tips for Submitting Your Writing Sample

Are you interested in pursuing a role as a Technical Writer Intern at Google? The application process for this competitive position can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to presenting your writing sample. In this guide, we will walk you through the requirements and best practices for submitting your writing sample in a way that aligns with Google's standards.

The Importance of a Strong Writing Sample

Your writing sample is a critical component of the application process. It provides an opportunity to showcase your skills and understand your ability to provide clear, concise, and user-friendly technical documentation. Google values writing skills highly and expects applicants to demonstrate both their writing abilities and their alignment with Google's culture of innovation and user-centric design.

Where to Submit Your Writing Sample

Google typically solicits your writing sample as part of the cover letter section. However, the cover letter section is not the only space available to you. If you have additional space, consider including your writing sample either as an attachment or linking to a portfolio site. This approach offers more flexibility for presenting your work.

Should You Include Diagrams in Your Sample?

Deciding whether to include diagrams in your writing sample is a consideration many technical writers face. Diagrams can enhance your writing by providing visual aids that complement the text, making complex information more accessible. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.

Benefits of Including Diagrams

1. **Enhanced Clarity**: Diagrams can make complicated processes or systems easier to understand. They can help explain concepts that are difficult to convey through text alone.

2. **User Engagement**: Well-constructed diagrams can increase the readability of your writing, making it more engaging for the reader. This is especially important if your documentation is for non-technical audiences.

Drawbacks of Including Diagrams

1. **File Size and Formatting**: Including diagrams may increase the file size of your submission, which could affect the user experience of your writing sample. It is also crucial to ensure that the diagrams are correctly formatted and display well.

2. **Storage and Linking**: If you choose to attach diagrams, ensure they are stored in a way that they can be easily accessed and are not subject to potential corruption or loss. If you decide to link to an online portfolio, ensure the diagrams are easily accessible and not behind a paywall or requires authentication.

Best Practices for Including Diagrams

If you decide to include diagrams in your writing sample, follow these best practices to ensure they enhance your work rather than detract from it:

1. Choose the Right Types of Diagrams

Select diagrams that effectively illustrate key points and enhance the clarity of your text. For example, flowcharts for complex procedures, schema diagrams for data and system architecture, and wireframes for user interfaces.

2. Optimize Diagrams for Online Viewing

Create or modify your diagrams to be viewed online. Ensure they are high resolution and in a web-friendly format, such as PNG or JPEG. For more complex diagrams, consider creating them in PDF format with interactive features.

3. Ensure Accessibility

Make sure your diagrams are accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments. Use alt text for images and ensure the text is in a readable font and size.

4. Quality over Quantity

Select a few key diagrams that most effectively support your written content. Including too many diagrams can overwhelm the reader and distract from the main message.

Alternatives to Including Diagrams

If you feel that the space in your cover letter is limited or if you prefer not to include diagrams, you can still present your writing sample effectively. Consider the following alternatives:

1. Text Only

Focus on the text within your writing sample. Ensure that it is well-organized, easily understandable, and provides value to the reader. This approach is suitable if you have a strong grasp of the language and can convey the necessary information without the need for diagrams.

2. External Portfolio

Create a portfolio site where you can house all of your writing samples, including any diagrams. Provide a link to this site in your cover letter. This approach gives you the flexibility to showcase a broader range of work and ensures that your submission is accessible in a variety of formats.

Conclusion

Submitting your writing sample for a Technical Writer Intern position at Google is a significant step in your application process. By carefully considering whether to include diagrams and using best practices to present your work, you can increase your chances of making a strong impression on the selectors. Remember, the key is to communicate clearly and effectively, whether through text, diagrams, or a combination of both.