Procedural Writing
Learn how to write clear instructions, recipes, and how-to guides that anyone can follow step by step.
What Is Procedural Writing?
Procedural writing tells the reader how to do something or how to make something. You see it everywhere: recipes, craft instructions, science experiments, game rules, and user manuals. The goal is to give clear, ordered steps so anyone can follow along and get the same result.
Recipes
How to cook or bake something delicious.
How-To Guides
How to build, fix, or create something.
Experiments
How to carry out a scientific investigation.
Structure of a Procedure
Every good procedure follows a clear structure. Think of it as a map that guides your reader from start to finish.
Title
A clear heading that tells the reader what they will make or do.
"How to Make a Paper Aeroplane"
Goal / Introduction
A sentence or two explaining the purpose or what the end result will be.
"Follow these simple steps to make a paper aeroplane that flies far and straight."
Materials / Ingredients
A list of everything the reader needs before they begin.
"You will need: 1 sheet of A4 paper, a ruler, coloured pencils (optional)."
Steps (Method)
Numbered, ordered instructions. Each step begins with a command verb (imperative).
"1. Fold the paper in half lengthways. 2. Open it back up..."
Conclusion / Tips
Optional helpful hints, safety warnings, or a closing statement.
"Tip: Throw gently at first to test your aeroplane before throwing hard."
Language Features of Procedures
Procedural texts use special language features to make the instructions as clear as possible.
Command Verbs (Imperatives)
Steps begin with a bossy verb that tells the reader exactly what to do.
Cut the paper. Stir the mixture. Place the lid on top. Wait five minutes.
Time Connectives (Sequence Words)
Words that show the order of the steps.
First, gather your materials. Next, measure the ingredients. Then, mix them together. Finally, serve on a plate.
Precise Language
Exact measurements, sizes, and details so the reader knows exactly what to do.
Vague: "Add some flour."
Precise: "Add two cups of plain flour."
Second Person (You) or No Pronoun
Procedures are written directly to the reader, or simply start with the verb.
"You should fold the paper in half." or simply "Fold the paper in half."
Annotated Example
See how a real procedure is put together. Notice the structure and language features.
How to Make Fairy Bread
A classic Australian party treat that is quick and easy to make.
Materials:
- White bread (1 loaf)
- Butter or margarine
- Hundreds and thousands (sprinkles)
- A butter knife
- A plate
Steps:
- Spread a thick layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Next, hold the buttered bread over the plate.
- Sprinkle hundreds and thousands generously over the buttered side.
- Press the sprinkles down gently with your hand so they stick.
- Finally, cut each slice into triangles and arrange on a serving plate.
Key Vocabulary
Procedure
A text that tells the reader how to do or make something using ordered steps.
Imperative Verb
A command verb that tells someone what to do (e.g. cut, fold, mix, pour).
Time Connective
A word or phrase that shows the order of steps (first, next, then, finally, after that).
Materials
The items, tools, or ingredients needed to complete the procedure.
Worked Examples
See how ordinary instructions can be improved using procedural writing techniques.
Example 1: Adding command verbs
Weak: You could maybe put the glue on the paper and then stick the picture on it.
Strong: Apply a thin layer of glue to the paper. Press the picture firmly onto the glued area.
Starting each step with a command verb makes it direct and clear.
Example 2: Using precise language
Vague: Cook it for a while until it looks done.
Precise: Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Exact temperatures, times, and descriptions remove guesswork.
Example 3: Adding time connectives
Without connectives: Put the seeds in the hole. Cover them with soil. Water them.
With connectives: First, place the seeds in the hole. Next, cover them with soil. Finally, water them gently.
Time connectives make the sequence clear and easy to follow.
Knowledge Check
Test your understanding of procedural writing. Select the correct answer and click "Check Answer".
Question 1
What is the main purpose of procedural writing?
Question 2
Which of the following is an imperative verb (command verb)?
Question 3
Which of these is the correct order for a procedural text?
Question 4
Which word is a time connective?
Question 5
Which instruction is the most precise?
Key Concepts Summary
- ● Procedural writing tells the reader how to do or make something using clear, ordered steps.
- ● The structure is: Title, Goal, Materials, Steps, Conclusion/Tips.
- ● Use imperative verbs (command words) to start each step.
- ● Use time connectives (first, next, then, finally) to show order.
- ● Be precise with measurements, times, and descriptions so the reader knows exactly what to do.