We see many how-tos every day. Some are written by professional writers, but
most are written by people just like you. Tutorials are a way of passing on
your knowledge and giving something back to the community. The tips below will
help you to create instructional articles that are easy to read and understand.
MAKE IT SCANNABLE
Create an outline before you start. Type the main points as you think of them.
When you're done, organize them into steps. use bullets, numbers or headings
to make them stand out, then fill in the details. Readers should be able to
get
an
overview
of your tutorial at a glance.
USE PROPER GRAMMAR
You don't have to be an English professor. Just use complete sentences, capitalize
only when necessary, don't mix up your periods and commas, and so on. Your
goal is to make your
how-to
as easy
to read as possible.
USE AN INTRODUCTION
Introduce your how-to by telling your readers what they'll be learning. If there's
room, you can also tell them why you've written the article and what your qualifications
are. Don't try to squeeze in too much information. The focus should be on the
knowledge you're providing.
BE HUMBLE
Think back to when you first began learning
about your topic. Things that seem obvious now were a mystery then. If you
could go back in time, what would you tell yourself to make things easier?
This is the same advice that will pave a smooth path for your students.
TELL THEM HOW, NOT ABOUT
ppp
Many of the tutorials we see are written without real instructions.
For example, rather than saying, "Trace a circle.", they might say, "When doing
this sort of thing, I like to trace a circle." Don't confuse your readers.
Clearly define the steps that they need to take.
"BITE-SIZED" PARAGRAPHS
Research has shown that the average reader learns best when paragraphs are 3-5 sentences long. This helps them to digest each idea before they move on to the next one. It also helps you maintain enough white space.
USE WHITESPACE
The use of whitespace increases readability. Leave a couple of blank lines between
sections. Look at the finished article as a whole and ask yourself, "Does it
look too crowded?". Especially when a topic is difficult, a big mass
of words can distract your reader from learning.
REMOVE UNNECESSARY WORDS
EXAMPLE: "Some people don't like hand drills (I do), but to get this part right, you really need to use a hand drill."
THE EDIT: "You'll need a hand drill for this next step."
STRIVE FOR VARIETY
Your how-to may be about cats, but there's only so many times you can use the
word "cat" before you bore your readers. First, ask yourself if a word really
needs to be in the sentence. Second, consider similes; for example, "kitty", "feline", "furry
friend" and so on.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The average US adult reads at an eighth grade level. To reach your audience, write
in the clearest, simplest manner possible. For example, the word "copy" is
better than the word "replicate".
AVOID LINGO
Experts tend to create their own languages. Most readers, however, will tune
out if a word they don't know shows up without explanation. Don't use lingo
unless it's necessary. Be sure to provide simple definitions. Let your
readers
get used to a new word before you introduce another one.
USE ACRONYMS SPARINGLY
Acronyms can be useful, but overusing them will cost you readers. No-one wants
to wade through a sentence like this:
"Your SDRAM/DDRAM will depend on your MB, CPU and OS."
Some things are better spelled out:
"The type of memory you'll need (SDRAM or DDRAM) will depend on the requirements of your motherboard, CPU and operating system."
STAY POSITIVE
Replace negatives with positives wherever possible. Some examples:
"Don't smudge your work." is replaced with "Rest your hand
on a piece of paper to avoid smudging."
"Only the uncivilized gulp their wine." is replaced with "Sip your wine slowly
to fully appreciate its flavor."
STORIES CAN HELP LEARNERS
People remember articles that are entertaining. A short story or joke that illustrates
a point can enhance your tutorial. As always, balance is the key.
Remember your instructional goal and stick to the topic at hand.
PICTURE IT
A picture really can be worth a thousand words. If you're trying to describe a dance step, for example, words won't work as well as a diagram or a photo. On the other hand, don't crowd the page with unnecesary graphics, especially animated ones. They'll distract your readers.
PROMOTE GENTLY
Many businesses write tutorials to promote their product or service. Avoid overtly
promotional articles. They turn readers off. Instead, focus on how-tos that
compliment what you sell.
For example, an auto repair shop might write a tutorial called 'How To Know When It's Time For A Tune-Up'. An art supplies store might offer 'How To Paint using Acrylics'. There's no need to refer to your company in the article. After all, your business name and contact information should already be on every page.
WRAP IT UP
An article without a closing paragraph feels unfinished. Summarize what the reader
has just learned. If you're willing to answer
questions, say so. End on an upbeat note.
EDIT
Once your tutorial is complete, read it aloud. Does it flow easily? Note where problems occur, rewrite, repeat. Proofread for typos and spelling errors. Finally, use your spell checker.
(Don't skip the proofreading. Spellcheckers won't correct a real word, whether or not it's the one you wanted. For example, far too many writers have embarrassed themselves by referring to the "Untied States".)
IN CLOSING
We've come to the closing paragraph. Keep these tips handy for reference, and you'll be well on your way to writing a great how-to. Your knowledge is valuable,
and someone out there is waiting to learn from you!
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