This too is technical communication

[Ned Bedinger]

Emily Berk wrote:
> The question is when does the writer cry uncle and admit that she understands just about nothing of all the source materials she's looked at and can't even imagine where to start

I've heard it called _spin cycle_, by analogy to a car spinning its 
wheels without traction. Or maybe something to do with a washing machine.

I'm sure a lot of tech writers end up in a similar-sounding situation, 
but for the other reason--unqualified for the project work they've taken 
on.

In either case, the way out is to come clean and let the team decide if 
you're to be folded with the laundry or torn up for rags :-) Yours is a 
good example of doing the right thing. Thanks for sharing.

Ned Bedinger
doc at edwordsmith.com