Defintion

Instruction

• a message describing how something is to be done (From http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=instruction)
• meant to help a reader accomplish a task quickly, efficiently and successfully (From http://www.wikihow.com/Write-Instructions)

Instruction Manual

• a manual usually accompanying a technical device and explaining how to install or operate it (From http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=instructions)

Guideline

• a detailed plan or explanation to guide you in setting standards or determining a course of action (From http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=guideline)

Different Types

• Cook books
• Gaming manuals / Strategy guides
• Technical manuals e.g. DVD player, drawer cabinet
• etc.

Features

• Factual, descriptive - not concerned with literary devices; attempts to convey factual information
• Specific target audience - depends on what the instructions are for, i.e. washing machine instruction manuals are for people who are using a washing machine!
• Importance on CLARITY of language
• Detail-oriented and logical
• Often uses formal register and specific terminology (jargon)

How to Write

1. Record the set of instructions
   • Observe someone performing the task and record every detail.
   • Perform the task yourself. Stop after each step and record every detail.
   • Compare both sets of instructions and change as necessary.
2. Points to note
   • Address the reader using "you" or "your".
   • Begin a sentence with an action verb to describe an activity. Use short sentences that contain only one action.
   • Include sufficient detail - complex steps may require additional explanation.
   • Clarify and reinforce steps with a photo, illustration or diagram.
   • Omit extraneous or confusing information.
   • Rearrange steps in the most efficient sequence.
3. Test the set of instructions
   • Observe someone performing the task following your instructions. Make note of any difficulties.
   • Revise your instructions.
   • Observe someone else performing the revision.
   • Revise again.
   • Repeat this process until someone can perform the task without difficulty.
4. Write the final draft
   • Distribute your instructions.

(Adapted from http://www.wikihow.com/Write-Instructions)

Tips for writing instruction manuals: http://www.writershelper.com/instruction-manuals.html

Model

Example:

http://www.totieatie.com/fourInHand.asp

Why it is a good model:

• Have pictures illustrating each step, thus conveying the factual information clearer
• Short sentences with a single action for each step, making it easy to follow
• Detailed and logical