Instructions

1
Instructions Issues

• Issues Associated with Instructions

2
Usability

• Are your instructions usable?
• Reader appropriate word choice
• Reader appropriate technicality and details
• Reader appropriate images

3
Readability

• Use clear and concise descriptions
• Use
• Direct Address
• Active Voice
• Imperative Mood
• i.e.
• Put the disk in drive A.
• Not, You can now put the disk into the drive we
  call drive A.

4
Readability

• Use short sentences
• Use complete logic
• Use parallel phrasing
• Use grouping of steps
• Avoid negative phrasing
• i.e. Verify that your disk is not contaminated
  with dust.
• Use, Examine your disk for dust contamination.

5
Legalities

• As a writer, you are responsible for liabilities
  associated with the document.
• You can be sued for negligence.

6
Legalities

• Some possible liabilities are
• Failure to provide full or proper instructions
• Failure to warn against hazards associated with
  use
• Failure to warn against improper use
• Failure to use appropriate language for audience
  to understand risks
• Failure to convey the extent of the risk via
  language
• Failure to display warnings prominently
• Lannon, 10th ed.