Procedural Texts
Master the art of writing clear, step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow, with proper formatting and helpful diagrams.
What Is a Procedural Text?
A procedural text tells someone how to do something or how to make something. It gives instructions in a clear, logical order so the reader can follow along step by step. You see procedural texts every day: recipes, game rules, science experiments, and instruction manuals.
Recipes
How to cook or bake something
Instructions
How to build or assemble
Experiments
How to run a science test
Rules
How to play a game
Structure of a Procedural Text
Every good procedural text follows a clear structure. Each part has a specific job.
Title / Goal
Tells the reader what they will make or do. Example: "How to Make a Paper Aeroplane"
Materials / Equipment
A list of everything needed before starting. Example: "You will need: 1 sheet of A4 paper, a ruler, scissors."
Steps (Method)
Numbered instructions in the correct order. Each step begins with a command verb (imperative).
Diagrams / Images (optional)
Labelled pictures or diagrams that help the reader understand tricky steps.
Tips or Warnings (optional)
Extra advice to help the reader avoid mistakes or get a better result.
Language Features
Procedural texts have their own special language features that make instructions clear and direct.
Command Verbs (Imperatives)
Steps begin with a bossy verb that tells the reader what to do.
"Fold the paper in half. Cut along the dotted line. Place the mixture in the bowl."
Time Connectives
Words that show the order of steps.
"First, next, then, after that, finally, meanwhile, once it has cooled..."
Precise Language
Exact measurements, quantities, and details so the reader knows exactly what to do.
"Add 250 mL of milk" (not "add some milk"). "Wait for 10 minutes" (not "wait for a while").
Common Mistake: Using "You" Instead of Commands
Worked Examples
Study these examples to see procedural text features in action.
Example 1: How to Make a Damper
Materials: 3 cups self-raising flour, 1 cup water, pinch of salt, mixing bowl, baking tray
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Combine the flour and salt in the mixing bowl.
3. Add the water gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place on the baking tray.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Analysis: Command verbs start each step. Precise measurements are given. Steps are numbered and in order.
Example 2: How to Set Up a Tent
Equipment: tent body, fly sheet, poles, pegs, mallet
1. Choose a flat, clear area away from any overhanging branches.
2. Spread the tent body flat on the ground.
3. Assemble the poles and thread them through the pole sleeves.
4. Secure the corners with pegs using the mallet.
5. Attach the fly sheet over the top and peg it out.
Analysis: Specific equipment listed. Location advice in step 1. Two command verbs in step 3 to keep it clear.
Example 3: How to Search Safely Online
1. Open a trusted search engine such as Google.
2. Type your search keywords into the search bar.
3. Check the website address before clicking — look for trusted sources.
4. Read the information carefully and compare at least two sources.
Warning: Never share personal information such as your full name, address, or school.
Analysis: Uses a warning box for safety. Clear command verbs. Practical, real-world procedure.
Key Vocabulary
Procedural Text
A text that provides step-by-step instructions on how to do or make something.
Imperative Verb
A command verb that tells the reader what to do (e.g., "mix", "cut", "fold").
Time Connective
A word or phrase that shows the order of steps (e.g., "first", "then", "finally").
Precise Language
Exact measurements, quantities, and details that remove guesswork for the reader.
Knowledge Check
Test your understanding of procedural texts.
Question 1
What is the purpose of a procedural text?
Question 2
Which of these is an imperative verb (command verb)?
Question 3
Which version uses precise language?
Question 4
What comes before the steps in a procedural text?
Question 5
Which of these is a time connective?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●A procedural text tells the reader how to do or make something using step-by-step instructions.
- ●Structure: Title → Materials → Steps → Diagrams/Tips.
- ●Start each step with a command verb (imperative) such as "fold", "mix", or "place".
- ●Use time connectives (first, next, then, finally) and precise language (exact measurements).
- ●Diagrams and warnings make instructions easier and safer to follow.