For this assignment you will be creating an instruction manual. You need to be detailed, descriptive, and accurate.
- Once you choose your topic you can search YouTube for videos to help you identify the process. In most cases you will search "how to..." Watch multiple videos to have a complete process for your instructions.
- Use your phone to take pictures of the process and use them in your instructions.
- You are not creating a lookbook like Ikea. You will need to write the step by step instructions that someone can follow.
Below are highlights of two sections from Tips for writing user manuals:
How to give instructions
- Provide step-by-step sequences in the correct order.
- Provide visual stepping stones (e.g. Step 1, Step 2 etc.)
- Avoid lengthy paragraphs.
- Use everyday words and terms: avoid jargon.
- Explain symbols, icons and codes early.
- Do not assume the user has prior experience or product knowledge.
- Write in the present tense and the active voice.
How to design individual pages in the user manual
- Ensure that font size is adequate (use at least 12 point font).
- Ensure high text-to-background contrast (black on white is best).
- Use san-serif fonts.
- Avoid using multiple font styles.
- Font weight can be used sparingly to denote importance.
- Use color coding consistently.
- Provide plenty of white space between sections and around images and paragraphs.
- Test your use of colors to ensure they can be read by color-blind users.
