Creating pressure pulses for pulse telemetry for MWD tools using direct drive. Example embodiments include activating an electric motor of the MWD tool, and thereby turning a motor shaft. Rotating the motor shaft may cause turning of a threaded shaft. Turning the threaded shaft may cause a ball screw nut to translate along the threaded shaft. Translating the ball screw nut may cause translating a piston rod within a cylinder housing. Translating the piston rod may cause movement of the poppet coupled to the piston rod.