Brackets is a free open source text editor that was developed by Adobe Systems.  It can be used to edit HTML, CSS, XML and XSLT files.

What you need to know in Brackets:

• Brackets is not a WYSIWYG editor, so you’ll need to know how to write code and save the file with the correct extension  (filename.html, filename.css, filename.xml, etc).

How it is used in the Industry:

Brackets is a useful tool for technical communicators who want to write their own code.

How it is used in the MSTC program:

Brackets could be used to learn how to write code for classes.  It could also be used to create websites for school projects.

Where can you learn more about Photoshop:

Visit the download page on the Adobe Systems website.

Photoshop is a raster graphics editor designed for graphic design and photo editing. It was developed by Adobe Systems.

What you need to know in Photoshop:

• Creating a new image – If you are using Photoshop, you are expected to know how to create, edit, and save an image file.
• You are expected to know the basics of image manipulation such as working with brightness, contrast, resolution, and cropping techniques.
• Using psd files – You’ll need to know how to save your work in psd files if you want to save Photoshop specific content like layers.

How it is used in the Industry:

Photoshop is not a necessary skill for technical communicators, but knowledge of this program might be useful.

How it is used in the MSTC program:

Photoshop is a very useful tool for designing graphics to include in documentation projects.  You can crop and edit screen captures, add pointers and more.

Where can you learn more about Photoshop:

Visit the Photoshop product page on the Adobe Systems website.