You probably have to write instructions every day if you're a teacher or technical writer.Writing clear instructions can be difficult for many other people.You can skip a key step if you assume your readers will do it, or you can include too many actions in one step.Before you write instructions, make sure you understand how to complete the task.Make sure they follow your instructions to the letter.
Step 1: The materials need to be gathered.
You need to be familiar with the task before you write instructions.Put the tools and supplies in the order you need them.Write down everything you need to do.You might want to include a list of tools or materials in your instructions.
Step 2: You can do the task yourself.
It's a good idea to walk yourself through the task before you write your instructions, so you don't forget anything.If you're familiar with the task, you may be prone to taking short cuts, so make sure you keep the information your reader doesn't have.
Step 3: An outline can be made.
Write down what you did as you perform the task.You can keep the instructions in logical order with this.As you write down the steps, you know what needs to be done and when.
Step 4: Define who your audience is.
Instructions for the same task can be written in a number of different ways.You will write differently for teenagers than for adults.The reason should be considered as well.The instructions for kids working on a project will be different from those for parents.
Step 5: The introduction should be short.
The introduction tells your readers what your instructions will allow them to do and what the final outcome will be.Keep in mind that most people will skim the introduction, so don't include important information in it.In case someone skips the introduction, be sure to include an important warning in your steps as well.If you're talking about how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you should mention that it's a great snack for kids.
Step 6: The task should be divided into steps.
Each step should have a single action.It can be broken up into smaller, less complex steps if you have more than one sentence per step.Break it up into two parts, "Fasten the dog's collar around its neck" and "Attach the leash to the collar."Attach the leash to the collar is the first step, followed by fastening the dog's collar around its neck.
Step 7: Use an action word to start each step.
The steps you write should be actionable.The action that your readers must take to complete that step of the task is shown in the verbs that you use.Word your instructions in terms of what you have to do, not what someone else has to think or know."Check the collar's fit" is more actionable if you're writing dog-walking instructions.
Step 8: Follow a logical path.
As soon as your reader reads the first step, you should expect them to start working on the task.They aren't going to read your instructions all the way to the end.If there is something you need your readers to know to complete a step, include it in the step itself.When it's too late, include the warning with the step itself, not in your introduction or at the end of your instructions.Your reader will know when they've performed the step correctly if you include guides.If you can place two fingers between the back of the collar and the neck of your dog, it will fit.
Step 9: Pick your words carefully.
Simple language can be understood by anyone.Most of the time you want to avoid jargon.Provide a short and simple definition if you must use a technical word.Technical legal terms can be used if you're explaining how to file a legal brief.Before giving the term used in the courts, place the plain-language definition first.
Step 10: Positive actions can be used.
It's better to tell your readers what to do, rather than what they shouldn't do.They are in the mindset to complete the task when they read instructions.They might get confused if you start telling them what not to do.It is better to say "check the collar's fit" than "avoid using a collar that is too small."
Step 11: Write in a second person.
The pronoun "you" allows you to address your reader directly.The reader doesn't have to guess what to do when you use the pronoun "you"If you write "the lever should be pushed", you leave your reader wondering who should push the lever."You must push the lever" or something similar means that your reader must do it.
Step 12: There are alternatives to include.
There are more than one way to accomplish a step or group of steps.The reader can choose how to complete the task if the alternative is provided.If you're explaining how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you can say that you need to use almond butter in case of peanut allergies.
Step 13: Where helpful, use graphics.
A picture is worth a thousand words.Sometimes a picture or diagram can make a specific action more understandable for your reader.To get more technical instructions, make sure the reader can clearly see what's happening in the picture, and the action isn't obscured by tools or hands.
Step 14: Your instructions should be organized into parts.
Some tasks have more than one part.If you're writing instructions for a larger task that includes several smaller parts, separate them into separate sections.When numbering your instructions, restart the numbering with each section.After finishing each part, the reader will feel accomplishment.Even if the task doesn't have any semi-independent parts, you should still break it into parts.Your readers can be overwhelmed by too many steps.
Step 15: Try to follow the instructions.
Nobody else will be able to follow you if you can't follow your instructions.Let your friends know if they found anything confusing by completing your instructions.If your instructions are lengthy or complex, you may have to test them several times.
Step 16: Carefully read your instructions.
Typos can ruin otherwise clear writing, making instructions hard to follow.Make sure they're error-free by reading through them backwards and forwards.A friend will look over your instructions for you if you're not confident in your editing skills.
Step 17: A list of tools or supplies is needed.
If a task requires specific tools or materials, a list can be useful.The list should be placed at the beginning of the instructions to give your reader time to gather materials.Think of it as a recipe in a cookbook.You can get a list of ingredients and cookware at the beginning of a recipe.
Step 18: Where appropriate, give warnings.
You may realize that there are hidden dangers in your instructions after testing them.Readers can take precautions if you alert them to the dangers.If you're writing instructions on how to boil water, you might want to include a warning that the pot will be too hot to touch even before the water starts boiling.