Processes and Instructions
Noun Addiction, Double Negatives and Other Lard You should give thoughtful consideration to a career change. In the event of a system failure, your sounding of the alarm is essential. Never fail to wear non-transparent clothing. “A theory has been proposed where it has been opined that a supernumerary tooth is created as a result of dichotomy of the tooth bud.”
Process Analysis How something happens or is done (not how to do it) (Ex. egg laying, How It's Made— sciencechannel.com ) Introduction Purpose of the item How detailed • Definitions • should the List of tools, equipment (maybe) • process analysis Overview of stages • be? Stages (remember to keep them under ten) Complete sentences • Full paragraphs • Conclusion Options Summarize the major stages if the process is long • Discuss advantages and disadvantages • Show how this process is related to other work or compares to • similar processes
Process Analysis Purpose Person Voice Mood To tell/learn how Third: “A pirate ties Active or passive: Indicative (giving something the anchor hitch.” or “The navigator checks information): “The happens, works “The chicken lays the coordinates.” or mechanic or is done (info the egg.” “The coordinates are reattaches the only) checked.” droid’s arm.” Instructions Purpose Person Voice Mood To tell how/find Second: “(You) Active: “Check the Imperative out how to Shake the drink.” coordinates.” (command): perform an “Reattach the action droid’s arm.” Narrative : past tense, indicative, what happened
Instructions: How to Do Something Instructions include cautions: • At the beginning • Just before the relevant step • On the device if relevant Caution (lowest level): possible minor injury or property damage Warning (mid-level): possible severe injury or death Danger (highest level): definite severe injury or death Always give a reason. Warning: To avoid electric shock, do not lick the capacitor.
Instructions: How to Do Something Instructions include an introduction: • Purpose of device • Function of device (if different)
Instructions: How to Do Something Instructions include a complete list of tools and supplies.
Instructions: How to Do Something Instructions include a numbered list of steps for Assembly and/or dissassembly o Operation o Maintenance o Adjust for short term memory
Instructions: How to Do Something Instructions may also include Troubleshooting • FAQs • Visuals and white space •
Instructions: How to Do Something Use appropriate instruction wording. Positive phrasing Not: Don’t put your feet on the table. >>> But: Put your feet on the floor.
Instructions: How to Do Something Use appropriate instruction wording. Logical order, vertical numbered list Not: Open the gate to the pen, but not until you put the scale in front of the opening. Then chase the pig through. >>> But: 1. Put the scale in front of the pen gate. 2. Station someone at each end of the scale. 3. Open the scale doors. 4. Open the pen gate. 5. Be ready to slam the doors shut as soon as the pig Enasco.com, 2014 enters the scale. Consider a caution here. 6. Chase the pig into the scale. 7. Slam the doors shut.
Instructions: How to Do Something Use appropriate instruction wording. Imperative (command form) Not: The door must be unlocked. >>> But: Unlock the door.
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