How to Write Clear Instructions
Legal and medical documents leave us in a daze of confusion. Make sure your own writing is straightforward and easy to follow. You don't want to confuse your readers or lose business clients because your words were unclear. Follow these tips to write clear instructions that get the point across.
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Instructions
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Write an introduction that outlines your idea and purpose of the instructions. Tell the reader how they will accomplish a task by following your steps.
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Use clear words that everyone can understand. If you use industry specific words, you will lose your reader. Assume the reader doesn't know anything about your topic.
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Leave lots of space between the steps. People find instructions easier to follow when there is white space dividing the tasks.
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Make sure the tasks are in the right order. Try the steps yourself to make sure you didn't leave anything out or mix up any steps.
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Number your steps so the reader can follow along. Keep your steps under ten. If you need more steps, you might want to add another section to your instructions.
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Use parallel structure in your writing. This means starting each step the same way. If you start with a verb for the first step, continue writing each step with a verb at the beginning.
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Pretend you are talking to a friend. Explain how to do things the same way you would explain it to someone in the room. Use a pleasant, helpful tone.
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Include diagrams and drawings when possible. Some people find it easier to follow along when a picture is included.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask a friend to try your instructions.
Don't assume the reader has prior knowledge of the task.
