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Be Specific!
Good instructions are specific, which means they give enough detail so the reader knows EXACTLY what to do.
Vague (not specific enough): First, get the stuff.
Specific (much better!): First, get a pot, some soil, and a sunflower seed.
Vague: Then, do the thing.
Specific: Then, push the seed about one inch into the soil.
Vague: Next, put water on it.
Specific: Next, gently pour a cup of water over the soil.
See the difference? Specific instructions answer questions like:
- What exactly do I need?
- How much?
- Where exactly?
- How do I do it?
Pretend you are writing for someone who has NEVER done this before. They need every little detail!