Instructions (Grade 10 NSC Matric English FAL): Revision Notes
Instructions
What are instructions?
Instructions are a type of shorter transactional text that guides someone through completing a specific task. They work by breaking down a process into clear, individual steps that the reader can follow in order. The main goal is to help the reader achieve something successfully, whether it's making an item, using a device, or following safety procedures.
For your writing to be effective, instructions must have three essential qualities. They need to be clear (easy to understand), logical (steps are in the right order), and simple to follow (the reader can complete the task without confusion).
These three qualities—clarity, logical order, and simplicity—are what separate effective instructions from confusing ones. If any of these elements is missing, your reader may struggle to complete the task successfully.
Types of instructions you may write in the exam
In your NSC English FAL exam, you might be asked to write instructions for different purposes. Understanding these types will help you prepare effectively.
A process
This type explains how to make or create something from start to finish. For example, you might write instructions on how to make a sandwich, how to plant a vegetable garden, or how to create a study timetable. Process instructions focus on producing a final result through a series of actions.
A task
Task instructions explain how to use something or prepare for a specific event. Examples include how to operate a mobile phone, how to prepare for a job interview, or how to get ready for an exam. These instructions help someone complete a particular activity or use a device correctly.
A safety or procedure guide
This type provides rules or steps to follow for safety or proper procedures. You might write instructions about laboratory safety steps, school rules to follow, or how to stay safe online. Safety instructions are particularly important because they protect people from harm or help maintain order.
Structure and format of instructions
Instructions follow a specific structure that makes them easy to read and follow. Each part serves an important purpose in helping the reader complete the task successfully.
Heading or title
Start your instructions with a clear heading that tells the reader exactly what they will learn to do. The title should be short and descriptive, making the purpose immediately obvious. For example, "Instructions for preparing for an exam" or "How to make a healthy smoothie" tells the reader what to expect. Avoid vague titles like "Instructions" or "How to do it."
List of steps
This is the main body of your instructions where you explain what to do. Each step must appear on a new line and be numbered (1, 2, 3...) or bulleted. Numbers are usually better because they show the exact order clearly.
The steps must follow a logical sequence from start to finish. Think about what needs to happen first, second, third, and so on. If your reader has to jump back and forth between steps, your instructions won't work well. Each step should contain one clear action or a closely related group of actions.
Conclusion (optional)
You may choose to end with a brief concluding sentence. This could be a helpful reminder, a warning, or an encouraging note. For example: "Remember to check your work before submitting" or "Always wash your hands after handling food." Keep this short—just one or two sentences. While this section is optional, it can be useful for emphasising an important safety point or final check.
Writing style and language features
The language you use in instructions is quite specific. Follow these guidelines to write in the correct style for this text type.
Using imperative verbs
Imperative verbs (also called command verbs) are the most important language feature in instructions. These are verbs that give direct orders or commands to the reader. They tell someone what action to take.
Start each step with an imperative verb to make your instructions direct and active. Common examples include: Add, Mix, Check, Wash, Turn off, Remember, Make sure, Open, Close, Press, Wait, Remove, Place, and Hold.
Worked Example: Using Imperative Verbs
Instead of writing "You should add two cups of flour" or "The flour needs to be added," write:
- Add two cups of flour to the bowl.
- Press the green button to start.
- Check that all windows are closed.
Notice how these verbs come at the very beginning of the instruction. This makes the action clear immediately.
Sentence structure
Keep your sentences short, clear, and direct. Long, complicated sentences confuse readers and make instructions hard to follow. Each sentence should contain one main action or piece of information.
Common Mistake to Avoid:
Instead of: "You should carefully add the flour while simultaneously mixing it with the eggs and making sure that you don't add too much at once."
Write: "Add the flour slowly. Mix it with the eggs as you pour. Stop if the mixture becomes too thick."
This approach makes each action separate and easy to understand.
Tense and tone
Always write instructions in the present tense. This means using the current form of verbs, not past or future forms. The present tense makes instructions feel immediate and direct.
Maintain a neutral or polite tone throughout your writing. This means being respectful and professional without being too casual or too formal. Avoid slang, jokes, or overly friendly language. At the same time, don't be rude or bossy. Your tone should be helpful and clear.
Linking words for sequence
Linking words (also called connectives or transition words) help show the order of steps and connect ideas. They guide the reader smoothly from one step to the next. Using linking words makes your instructions flow well and helps readers understand the sequence.
Common linking words for instructions include: First, Next, Then, After that, Finally, Meanwhile, Before, and During.
These words act as signposts, showing your reader where they are in the process and what comes next.
For example:
- First, gather all your ingredients.
- Next, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Then, measure the flour into a bowl.
- Finally, clean up your work area.
Helpful linking words and phrases
Different linking words serve different purposes in your instructions. Here's a guide to help you choose the right ones.
To show order or sequence
Use these words to indicate which step comes first, second, third, and so on:
- First
- Next
- Then
- After that
- Finally
These words help readers follow the correct sequence without confusion.
To give extra details or emphasise important points
Use these phrases when you need to add warnings, reminders, or important details:
- Make sure
- Remember to
- Be careful not to
For example: "Remember to turn off the stove" or "Be careful not to overfill the container."
To show results or outcomes
Use these words to explain why a step is important or what will happen as a result:
- So that
- Therefore
- As a result
For example: "Mix the ingredients thoroughly so that the texture is smooth."
Sample instruction text
Sample: Instructions for Making a Good First Impression
INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION
- Greet people politely and smile.
- Maintain eye contact when speaking.
- Dress neatly and appropriately.
- Listen carefully and do not interrupt others.
- Be confident but respectful.
- Thank people for their time and attention.
Remember: first impressions last, so always be kind and professional.
Analysis of this example:
Notice how this example demonstrates all the key features:
- Has a clear, descriptive title
- Uses numbered steps on separate lines
- Starts each step with an imperative verb (Greet, Maintain, Dress, Listen, Be, Thank)
- Keeps sentences short and direct
- Uses present tense throughout
- Maintains a polite, helpful tone
- Ends with a brief reminder in the conclusion
Exam tips for writing instructions
When writing instructions under exam conditions, follow these practical strategies to achieve the best marks.
Critical Exam Requirement:
Instructions for the exam should typically be 50-80 words. Count your words and don't go over. Remove any unnecessary details if you're too long. This word limit is strictly enforced in marking.
✔ Use clear step-by-step order: Number your steps (1, 2, 3...) or use bullet points. This makes the sequence obvious to the reader and the examiner.
✔ Start each step with an imperative verb: Make sure every step begins with a command verb (Add, Mix, Turn, Press, etc.). This is a key marking criterion.
✔ Keep language simple and direct: Use straightforward words and short sentences. Avoid complicated vocabulary or long explanations within a single step.
✔ Stay within the word limit: Instructions for the exam should typically be 50-80 words. Count your words and don't go over. Remove any unnecessary details if you're too long.
✔ Avoid long sentences or unnecessary details: Get straight to the point. Each step should contain only essential information. Don't add extra descriptions that don't help complete the task.
✔ Make sure the reader could follow your instructions successfully: Read through your work and imagine actually doing what you've written. Would it work? Are the steps in the right order? Have you missed anything important?
✔ Check spelling and punctuation carefully: Technical mistakes lose marks. Pay special attention to capital letters at the start of sentences, full stops at the end, and correct spelling of key words.
Quick Memory Aid: SIMPLE
Remember the key features of good instruction writing:
- Short sentences
- Imperative verbs
- Maintain order
- Present tense
- Logical sequence
- Easy language
Remember!
Key Points to Remember:
- Instructions guide someone through a task by breaking it down into clear, sequential steps.
- Use the correct structure: title, numbered steps, and optional conclusion.
- Start every step with an imperative verb (Add, Mix, Check, Turn, etc.) to give direct commands.
- Keep your language simple: short sentences, present tense, and neutral/polite tone.
- Use linking words (First, Next, Then, Finally) to show the order of steps clearly.
- Follow exam requirements: 50-80 words, step-by-step order, check spelling and punctuation.