What is the difference between technical writing and other types of writing?

Technical writing is a specific type of writing designed to provide steps a person can use to take advantage of a technology. For example:

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In this example, the structure is consistent. Terminology used is reflected in the labels used on the page. Steps are few and simple.

Technical writers always use the present tense, active verbs, and write in a third-person voice.

Other types of writing allow much wider flexibility in tense, verb use and voice.