Read the chapter on instructions, RTI, pages 491-526, before studying this example. Read the discussion and questions, and click on the links to see the text being discussed in the annotation.

Context: Instructions

At the request of his university ROTC, Barry is writing a set of operating instructions for novice users of the M-16A rifle. The weapons supervisor of the local ROTC has noticed that new ROTC recruits are returning their rifles in poor condition and that they do not understand how to check, load, and unload the rifles. Since shooting is high risk and since the rifles are expensive, Barry's ROTC hopes that the instructions will provide an easy-to-use guide to prevent accidents and damage.

Overview Questions

  1. Has Barry adequately discussed the purpose of his procedures? Has he given ROTC recruits all of the information they need to perform the procedures he outlines?

  2. Has Barry adequately outlined the level of knowledge his readers need in order to use his instructions? How can he be sure that he has defined his reader's needs and knowledge level accurately?

  3. Do you feel that you could follow Barry's instructions if you had an M-16A?

  4. Does Barry define all of the technical terms he uses?

  5. Are Barry's graphics sufficient to help novice reader/users of his procedure?

  6. Has Barry provided adequate warnings and safety precautions for his readers?

  7. Does Barry's format adequately guide and warn readers?

  8. How can Barry test the usability of his instructions?

  9. What do you consider the strengths of Barry's instructions?

  10. What suggestions would you make to help Barry make his instructions more useful to his readers?

Annotation Questions

  1. Title. Does the title accurately describe the subject and purpose of the instructions?

  2. Introduction. Is the introduction a clear and accurate description of the purpose, scope, subject, and skill level of the instructions that follow? (See RTI, pages 494-5.)

  3. Warnings & cautions. Is the warning clear and clearly labeled? What does "in a safe direction" mean, exactly? (See RTI, pages 504-509.)

  4. Equipment list. Is the list of needed equipment adequate for readers? Should they know more? Where do they obtain the equipment? (See RTI, page 499.)

  5. Definitions. Should a "function check" be defined at this point? (See RTI, pages 66-68.)

  6. Overview. Is an overview and description of the rifle necessary to help readers understand all of the steps that follow? (See RTI, pages 499-504.)

  7. Detailed instructions. Are the steps in sufficient detail to allow readers to follow them easily and safely?

  8. Graphics. Are diagrams sufficient to support the steps? Are they discussed in sufficient detail?

  9. Summary. Does the summary usefully sum up the key steps and help readers test for success and completeness of the instructions?