Write Directions or Steps for a Task
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What you will learn
- 1Write clear step-by-step directions for a simple task using the sequence words first, next, then, and finally
- 2Start each step with an action verb after the sequence word and comma
- 3Include only one action per step so a reader can follow the directions without help
Mini Lesson
Directions are step-by-step instructions that guide someone through a task. Think of a recipe, a craft guide, or game rules — all of these use directions. Good directions are so clear that someone who has never done the task before can follow them perfectly!
The Four Sequence Words
- First — the very first step. What does the person do before anything else?
- Next — the second step that comes right after the first.
- Then — the steps that come in the middle.
- Finally — the last step. The task is now complete!
- These words signal to the reader exactly where they are in the process.
Start Every Step With an Action Verb
- An action verb tells the reader exactly what to DO.
- Examples: Get, Take, Fill, Put, Stir, Press, Open, Pour, Close, Carry, Write, Draw
- Correct: "First, fill the glass with cold water."
- Wrong: "First, the glass should have water." (no clear action)
- After the sequence word and comma, the action verb comes immediately.
Rules for Clear Directions
- One step per sentence — never put two actions in one step.
- Be specific — say exactly how much, how many, or how long.
- Write a title — How to Make a Peanut Butter Sandwich.
- Test your directions — could someone follow them without your help?
Words to know
Directions
Step-by-step instructions that guide someone through a task from start to finish
e.g. How to Wash Your Hands / How to Plant a Seed
Sequence word
A signal word (first, next, then, finally) that tells the reader where they are in the process
e.g. "First, fill the glass. Next, add ice. Finally, stir it."
Action verb
A word at the start of each step that tells the reader exactly what to DO
e.g. Get, Fill, Press, Pour, Stir, Fold, Cut, Open, Add
Step
One single action in a set of directions — each step should contain only ONE action
e.g. "First, turn on the faucet." is one step with one action.
Title
The heading at the top of a set of directions that tells the reader what task the directions are for
e.g. "How to Make a Peanut Butter Sandwich"
Ask yourself: "Did I use a sequence word? Does my step start with an action verb? Is each step just ONE action? Could a stranger follow these directions?"
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