Writing assignment #2 will be an instruction manual. For this assignment, you will write a document that provides coherent and well-designed instructions on completing a task.

The manual will include the following sections:

• Title Page
• Overview or Introduction
• Equipment and materials needed
• Definitions (if appropriate)
• Instructions
• You must have at least two graphics in your instructions
• Warnings or statements of caution as appropriate

The minimum length is approximately 6 pages with the instructions being a minimum of 750 words and the technical description being a minimum of 500 words, for a minimum total of 1,250 words. Incorporate your definitions either into the text of the technical description and instructions, or into a glossary.

 Helpful websites on writing instructions:

• Jerz's literacy page features a fine set of tips on writing instructions.
• David McMurrey has a very helpful website on writing instructions.
• Wikibooks has an excellent guide to writing instructions.

Other helpful guides on writing instruction manuals:

·        The Tech Writing Handbook by Dozuki, which is one of the resources listed in our class, has the following:

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  • an appendix that provides tips in writing instructions and incorporating graphics into instructions.
  • chapter 6, "Photographing the process."
  • chapter 7, "Using Other Visuals."

The Mayfield Handbook, which is also one of the resources listed in our class, features excellent tips on writing instructions.

•  
  • One particular section of the handbook that you will find helpful can be accessed.

Examples of instruction manuals for you to look at:

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  • To see an example of an instruction manual on setting up a VPN.
  • You may observe a video instruction on swimming. Note how the author lists the equipment and then proceeds to mention the steps involved. The video is over 10 minutes long. You might just take a look at the first couple of minutes to see how he lists the equipment and then proceeds to the steps.

Length:

The minimum length is approximately 6 pages with the instructions being a minimum of 750 words and the technical description being a minimum of 500 words, for a minimum total of 1,250 words. Incorporate your definitions either into the text of the technical description and instructions, or into a glossary.

§  Supporting information presented from other sources is paraphrased or summarized rather than presented as direct quotation.  Direct quotations are not used..