Difference between revisions of "Process Analysis"

Revision as of 12:21, 9 September 2009

Process Analysis

One of the Seven Types of Paragraph Development that is used to show readers how something is done or happens (informs / explains) or explains how to do something (instructs / directs). A Process Analysis paragraph is written in chronological order to demonstrate the different steps containing simple and clear words, definition of complex terms and may also contain visual graphics (e.g.: charts, maps, diagrams) and a section of frequently asked questions. Process Analysis can be used to identify improvement opportunities by evaluating the flow of inputs and outputs within the process.

{{Tool|Writing a Process Analysis Paragraph

• 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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References

1. ↑ www.academicwriting.suite101.com (31 July 2009), www.essortment.com (31 July 2009), www.oeas.ucf.edu (31 July 2009), [1] (31 July 2009), leo.stcloudstate.edu (31 July 2009), www3.delta.edu (31 July 2009)