Technical Instructions
Writing technical instructions is quite a difficult task. However, if you break it up into small bite-size chunks you will knock it out with no problem. There is a structure to instructions, it flows with an introduction, materials needed, directions, and troubleshooting. If you have read a recipe before it is very similar. We will break it down step-by-step.
1. Introduction. Your intro should be brief but informative and it should include your aim, intended readers, and safety information. Your aim is your task that will be explained and the outcome. The intended readers will be those who are reading the instructions. The safety information is your responsibility to inform the readers of any risk they might face while performing the task. While creating your warnings ensure they visually stand out and place them before they perform the said task. Also, include what the reader can do to protect themselves.
2. Materials Needed. This step should be given to the reader before giving the instructions on how to complete the task. During this step, you should tell the reader what materials they will need before continuing. You want the reader to be prepared instead of finding out halfway they have to go to the store to collect the remaining items.
3. Directions. While writing the directions you want the reader to know what to do. It is important to number each step, and that one step focuses on one action. Write the steps in a way to commands the reader what to do. For example, insert bolt a into nut b. If you start with an action verb this should make it easier. Another tip is to highlight keywords. Also, using, graphics can indicate where things go, how to perform the step, and how the result might look.
4. Troubleshooting. Inside the troubleshooting section, you should include items that readers can go to in case something goes wrong or they make a mistake. A table format often works the best for this step. The table should include a problem section, a possible cause section, and a correction section.
If you break technical instructions up into these four phases, you should be able to create any type of technical instruction with ease. Below I will include some examples of some technical instruction graphics, safety diagrams, and troubleshooting sections to help paint a picture when you start creating your own technical instructions.
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