Document Development Exposition: Instructions

Explain in detail your document’s development from planning to finish, describing your
challenges, how you overcame them, and what you learned.

Planning
In planning this document, I had trouble picking a topic. I narrowed down my choices by defining
something I have a lot of experience in and am efficient at.
When my topic was chosen, I started the process by taking notice and writing down all the things I do
at work to use for these instructions.
After, I organized my notes from work into numbered steps.
Additionally, it was challenging to pick an appropriate font and layout for professionalism and clarity.
I decided to show my roommates a few different font and size options and asked them which
seemed most professional and accessible.
I learned that a simple topic requires a lot of steps, even if it is something that I can complete in 5
minutes it may take beginners more time.

First Draft (for peer editing)

In my first draft, I focused on serving a table at TacoLu. When completed, I realized that these
instructions may be too lengthy.
I also had trouble with skipping steps since I am so used to completing this task. I solved this by
reading the instructions to my roommates separately to see if they could follow along, then let them
ask me questions. This allowed me to see where clarification was needed and what steps I missed.
While writing the steps for this draft, I focused on plain language that is clear enough for anyone to
understand, even without restaurant experience.

Second Draft (for your packet)

While working on my second draft, I concluded that the topic of serving a table was too lengthy and
complicated and decided to change it to greeting a table.
This solution helped to focus in on the important steps.
I was confused on what should or should not be included in the instructions, so I reread the
instructions out loud to a training certified server at my restaurant for help. She confirmed the
importance of each step and reminded me of one small error.
Once condensing the instructions, I focused on what small tips could be included for greater clarity
and success.

Final Draft (for your portfolio)

In my final draft, I notice spacing errors. I solved this by changing the numbered steps to roman
numerals, the only type that did not cause the spacing errors.
I also noticed some design elements that needed to be included.
I added an underline to the main heading.
I made each step a complete sentence with a period.
I made each step start with a command.
I changed a part of a step to a tip within a tip box outlined in dark red to grab the audience’s
attention.
Document Development Exposition: Instructions