To: Nancy Myers

From: Andersen Sala

Date: April 21, 2022
Subject: APLED 121-Chapter 15 Summary-Outline

CHAPTER 15
INSTRUCTIONS, USER MANUALS, AND STANDARD OPERING PROCEDURES

Why Write Instructions? – Almost every manufactured item comes with a set of instructions on how to
use the product properly.

Criteria for Writing Instructions

 Audience Recognition- Don’t assume your readers are high-tech or up to date. Write for clarity.
 Ethical Instructions- State potentials and keep it up to date incase unknown variables come up.
 Components of Instructions- Not all instructions contain the same components.
 Title Page- Make a preview for what the instructions will accomplish.
 Safety Requirements- Add weight to the significance of the follow steps, they could be fatal.
 Table of Contents- There could be more than instructions in the following content.
 Introduction- A chance to speak to the customer.
 Glossary- Use this to define abbreviations, acronyms, and technical terms.
 Required Tools or Equipment- Let them know so they don’t end up missing critical tools halfway
through.
 Instructional Steps
o Organize the Steps Chronologically
o Number Your Steps
o Use Highlighting Techniques
o Limit the Information within Each Step
o Use Short Words, Sentences, and Paragraphs
o Begin Your Steps with Verbs
o Do Not Omit Articles
 Additional Components
o Technical Descriptions
o Warranties
o Accessories
o Frequently Asked Questions
o Corporate Contact Information
 Graphics- Different audiences would benefit from a picture.

Collaboration to Create User Manuals- Complex manuals benefit from multiple perspectives for
development and review.
Instructional Videos- Videos offer visuals than can be paused or rewound for the learner and gives the
writer a chance to add additional content.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

 Reasons for Writing an SOP? – Ensures accuracy and consistency of procedures.
 Components of SOPs
o Title Page
o Table of Contents
o Scope and Applicability - Summary of Method
o Definition of Terms
o Safety Warnings and Cautions
o Interferences - Personnel Qualifications/Responsibilities
o Equipment and Supplies
o Procedures
o Data and Records Mgt. - Quality Control/Assurance
o References

Test for Usability

1. Select a test audience
2. Ask the audience to test the instructions
3. Monitor the audience
4. Time the team members
5. Quantify the audience’s responses

Sample Instructions- Flow charts can visually give sequence to the steps.

The Writing Process at Work

 Prewriting-Brainstorming
 Writing-Write your paper
 Rewriting-Proof read and edit