# Technical Writing

> Guide for writing effective technical documentation, specs, and markdown files. Use when creating or editing specs, documentation, READMEs, AGENTS.md files, or any markdown content in the codebase.

- Skill: `saffron-health/technical-writing` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add saffron-health/technical-writing`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/saffron-health/technical-writing/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Docs & Writing
- Author: saffron-health (https://skillmd.com/u/saffron-health)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/saffron-health/technical-writing

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# Technical Writing

## Audience

Assume readers are at least as smart as you, so do not over-explain. State information once and move on.

## Style

Write concise, complete sentences using active voice and present tense. Each paragraph or bullet should express a single idea.

## Formatting

- Do not use emojis.
- Do not use bold or italics.
- Use headings, lists, and code blocks only when they add clarity.
- Use fenced code blocks with language identifiers.

## Paths

Always use relative file paths: `docs/testing.md`, not `/Users/name/project/docs/testing.md`.

## Do Not Repeat

Link to existing resources instead of duplicating content. Reference other docs, web pages, or files rather than restating their information.