To: Nancy Myers

From: Dylan Sacksteder

Date: October 18, 2022
Subject: APLED 121-Chapter 15 Summary

Chapter 15 Summary

Why Write Instructions? -Include instructions whenever your audience needs to know how to operate a
mechanism. Install equipment, etc.

Criteria for Writing Instructions

 Audience Recognition-Even high-tech readers will have a hard time following instructions with
how much technology changes every day.
 Ethical Instructions-User manuals and instructions are perfect examples of the importance of
ethical communication.
 Components of Instructions-Some instructions will consist of book full of components.
 Title Page-Explain why the instructions are being written.
 Safety Requirements-Note all hazards as much as possible.
 Table of Contents-With multiple sections, a table of contents Is very useful.
 Introduction-Introductions are a good way to get people interested in the object or part you are
selling.
 Glossary-Define abbreviations, acronyms, and technical terms in the back.
 Required Tools or Equipment-Make sure to let your audience know what tools they will need.
 Instructional Steps-The most important part of the manual
 Additional Components-Technical descriptions, warranties etc.
 Graphics-Very good for clarifying parts of a mechanism or part.

Collaboration to Create User Manuals-Collaboration is essential for team members

Instructional Videos-Animated can be better than static text for some end-users, good for visual
learners, can be downloaded anywhere, anytime by mobile users, and end-users can perform at their
own pace.

Standard Operation Procedure (SOP)-A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of written
instructions that documents routine, or repetitive technical or administrative activities followed by
business and industry.

Reasons for Writing an SOP?

 Components of SOPs
  Title Page
 Table of Contents
 Scope and Applicability
 Definition of Terms
 Safety Warnings and Cautions
 Interferences
 Equipment and Supplies
 Procedures
 Data and Records Mgt., Quality Control/Assurance
 References

Test for Usability Sample Instructions

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

The Writing Process at Work

 Pre-writing-Flowcharts chronologically trace the stages of an instruction, visually revealing the

flow of the process.
 Writing-Compose rough draft and share to relatives and friends for corrections.
 Re-writing-Use corrections to rewrite the draft into a Final Draft.