How To Write Instructions
Instructions are a way to show people how to perform a process. When you email someone the directions to your house, write a how-to about faucet repair or leave detailed tasks for an employee to do, you’re usually giving them instructions.
There are many ways you can format instructions. You can use step-by-step lists, detailed narratives to illustrate what the user should do, diagrams, flowcharts and more. Regardless of what format you use, they all share certain similar traits. Keeping track of these should help you the next time you write your own instructions.
- All instructions include ordered steps. If you’re not giving the reader a series of things to do in a particular order, then you’re probably not writing an instruction.
- Instructive sentences are best conveyed with an imperative tone. Don’t hesitate to employ an imperative tone. You’re not making a request or stating a fact – you’re giving directions about what to do.
- Hazardous or difficult steps should come with corresponding cautionary statements. Make sure to add special precautions for sensitive, dangerous or complicated steps. If you want the reader to be take on a particular frame of mind when doing something, say so, instead of expecting them to figure it out on their own.
- Examples and illustrations will help clear up potentially unclear instructions. Use examples liberally, especially with steps which may be more difficult to understand.
As with all writing, make sure you revise and edit your work to be as clear as possible. Remember to use a proofreading program, as well, to help you iron out every last bit of the piece.