- Choose a topic that is short and clear; state if its aim is to inform or instruct.
- Make a list of all the steps involved in the process
- Display the steps in chronological order using words such as First, Next, Then, Finally
- Make sure steps are not omitted
- Write first draft
- Include an introduction that explicitly states the process
- Explain how readers can learn or benefit from this process
- If it is a directional process, assure readers that they will be able to follow the instructions
- Mention about any tools or information the readers will need to be able duplicate the process
- Give specific examples and/or add visual graphics if they help illustrate the process
- Highlight the possibility of dangers and pitfalls
- Be consistent and use the same mood throughout
- For imperative mood, give instructions using present tense such as “enter the username and password and then click on the Login button”
- For indicative mood, give instructions by making statements such as “you should enter the username and password and then click on the Login button”
- Write a conclusion, summarizing the benefits and the final outcome of the process
- Edit your draft and make sure the process is clear, logical, well explained, consistent and coherent
- Provide transitions to show steps, sub steps and examples
- Avoid passive voice, i.e.: Instead of writing “The page is opened after you click on the Login button”, write “After you click on the Login button, the page opens.”
- Proofread the revised draft for grammar, punctuation and spelling
- Prepare and proofread the last copy
- Have someone else read the process analysis paragraph and comment on it. This person should be able to answer the following questions:
- What kind of process is being explained? Is it meant to inform or instruct?
- Why is this process important?
- Does this process follow a logical pattern throughout the paragraph?
- Who or what is affected by the process?
- Can the process be done in different ways? If yes, in which ones?
- Who will read this process? Do the readers need a certain understanding to be able to follow the process?
- Is there a need for special skills or equipment(s) for this process? If yes, which ones?
- What is the timeframe for this process? Does the process always show the same outcome?
- How many steps does the process have?
- Should certain steps be omitted / added?
- Why is every step essential?
- If any, what are the obstacles encountered? Can they be overcome? If yes, how?
- Does the reader need to be cautious about something? Is this clearly stated?
- Are all the definitions clear? If not, how should they be rephrased?
- Do similar processes already exist? If yes, can they be used as an example to illustrate the steps?
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PROCESS ANALYSIS
Writing a Process Analysis Paragraph