Describing

Process/
Procedure
 Structure of an Process Description

NAME OF VARIATION OF PROCESS

PROCESS/EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION OF STEPS
USES/APPLICATIONS
PURPOSE
ADVANTAGES
INTRODUCE STEPS
TIPS & PRECAUTIONS
RESTATE THE PURPOSE
What are the differences
between process,
instruction and procedure?
Comparison
Feature Process Instruction Procedure
Mood Indicative Imperative Indicative
(Statement of (Order/ (Statement of
fact) Command) fact)

Voice Active or Active Passive

(Tense) Passive (Present) (Past)
(Present)
Important language
tool:
1- Signal markers
2- Active/Passive voice
Signal markers
1. Words that signal the order in which the steps take place.
2. Signal markers indicate whether the steps happen:
◦ Chronologically = one after another
◦ Causally = one causes another
◦ Simultaneously = together
◦ Subcycles = repeated process
 Signal marker examples
1. First, phosphates are removed by using lime. The waste water is then
channelled into the nitrogen removal tank.
2. In the carbon absorption subprocess, carbon causes impurities.
3. Waste water is pumped into the plant for primary treatment. At the same
time, suspended solids and floating are skimmed off. The used carbon is
extracted, regenerated and recycled for further use in the same
subprocess.
 Active/Passive Voice
1. Active voice
1. The subject performs the action.
2. Normally used when the subject that perform the action is not human.

2. Passive voice
1. The subject is acted on.
2. Normally used when the subject is human
 Active/Passive Example
The apparatus consists of a self-contained bench complete with
all the necessary equipment for a wide range of demonstrations
and experiments in hydrostatics and properties of fluids. The
bench is fitted with a reservoir tank which supplies water for the
experiments. A tank is mounted on the unit and can be filled
from the reservoir for experiments which require a free water
surface.