Authors and writers plan, research and write books, scripts, storyboards, plays, essays, speeches, manuals, specifications and other non-journalistic articles for publication or presentation.

• Technical writers usually require a university degree in the area of specialization, such as computer science or engineering.
  
• Copywriters usually require a university degree or college diploma in French, English, marketing, advertising or another discipline.
  
• Creative writing programs are offered by universities and colleges.
  
• Talent and ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work, are important hiring criteria.
  
• Membership in a guild or union related to the occupation may be required.