Understand What Process Analysis Is

Process Analysis

Writing That Explains How Things Happen

Understand What Process Analysis Is

Process analysis explains either how to do something (so your readers can do it) or how something works (so your readers can understand it). Both types of process analysis present the steps involved in the process.

Four Basics of Good Process Analysis

  1. It helps readers either perform the steps or understand how something works.
  2. It presents the essential steps in the process.
  3. It explains the steps in detail.
  4. It arranges the steps in a logical order (usually in chronological order).

In the following paragraph, each number corresponds to one of the Four Basics of Good Process Analysis.

image

Whenever you give someone directions about how to do something or explain how something works, you are using process analysis. Here are some ways you might use process analysis.

COLLEGE In an information technology course, you write an essay explaining the process for implementing a new data management system.
WORK The office has a new security system, and you are asked to write a memo to employees explaining how to access their work areas during and after normal business hours.
EVERYDAY LIFE You write directions telling your child how to operate the washing machine.