How Engineers Can Overcome Writing Challenges

As an engineering student, you’re probably used to tackling a demanding STEM course load filled with equations, labs, and technical projects. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to overlook English or writing courses, assuming they don’t connect to your field, or worse, that they’re a waste of time.

But here’s the thing, writing is the basis of communication. Without proper communication, you cannot expect additional success in your engineering career. But here’s the good news: you can get better at writing, and it doesn’t have to be painful! 

Here are a few approachable ways to build your writing skills, helping you work toward your goals with less stress along the way.  

Make it stress-free 

When you’re forced to write for a school project with an upcoming deadline, it adds pressure to succeed and makes writing feel like a chore. Instead, try making it a fun, easy task. For example, set a goal to journal once a week or to write creatively once a month. This allows you to write freely without the pressure to do something great. Remember that writing is supposed to be a fun hobby, not a chore.  

Learn how to Write Effectively 

One of the reasons you may hate writing is simply because you feel like you aren’t good at it. It’s natural to avoid working on your weaknesses, but strengthening them can add another skill to your list. If you find yourself struggling to get out a well-written essay during midterm or finals season, consider taking a writing lesson at your school’s writing centre. This way, you can seek writing help from professionals who know the standard for your school’s assignments and can help you perfect your writing over time.  

Make it Social 

Trying out new things like writing alone can make it more intimidating than it is. So, try joining writing clubs with another engineering classmate or even one of your friends in a different program. Better yet, there are a variety of creative writing workshops or poetry slams to attend and sign up for, most of which are even free of charge. Bring a friend who might enjoy trying out something like this with you, and you can even make it a weekly or monthly going-out activity.  

Struggling to start that essay in the middle of a hectic midterm season doesn’t mean you’re not capable of becoming a strong writer; it simply means you haven’t built the habit yet. By embracing writing as a skill rather than a chore, you can turn it into a daily practice that strengthens your ability to think, create, and connect. 

In the end, clear communication isn’t just a “nice-to-have” in engineering; it's a career-defining advantage that can set you apart in any field you pursue.