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Snap Language

Getting Smarter through Language

Modes of Organization
Process Analysis (Steps in a Process) Mode

Steps-in-a Process Mode of Organization

Writers choose the process analysis (or steps in a process) mode of organization when it is important to organize information in stages or steps, which must be followed in the sequence that is presented.

It involves presenting information in a clear and logical order, and providing detailed instructions or explanations for each step of the process in its correct sequence.

 

Topics or ideas that call for the process analysis or steps-in-a-process mode of organization include any “how to" topics such as “how to bake/cook,” “how to write a paragraph/an essay,” or “how to start a business.” They also include anything that follows a process or a predetermined sequence of events such as “how plants photosynthesize,” “how we digest our food,” or “how the water cycle works.”

Types of Text Using the Process Analysis Mode

The process analysis (or steps in a process) mode is frequently used in any context where information can be presented as a process broken down into stages or steps, which must be followed in the sequence presented. It can be found in instruction manuals, how-to guides, recipe or cooking books, and in technical and academic writing.

Transition Words Used in the Process Analysis Mode

Transitions commonly used in the process analysis (or steps in a process) mode in order to signal where each new step begins include the following: the first step is, first, second, third, next, then, after that. Numbered lists can also be used.

Example steps-in-a-process mode of organization

Example 1

The following paragraph is written using the process analysis (or steps in a process) mode of organization:

To make a cup of coffee first measure out one scoop of ground coffee for every cup of water that you plan to use. Next, fill your coffee maker with the desired amount of water and add the ground coffee to the filter. Turn on the coffee maker and wait for it to finish brewing. Finally, as soon as the coffee is finished brewing, pour it into your mug and add any desired milk or sweetener. For a better flavor and enjoyment, drink it while it is still hot.

Note. The above paragraph is used for instructional purposes only. Search the topic for accurate information on it.

Example 2

The same information presented in Example 1 can be presented using a numbered list as follows:

To make a cup of coffee you should follow these steps.

  1. Measure one scoop of ground coffee for every cup of water that you plan to use.
  2. Fill your coffee maker with the desired amount of water and add the ground coffee to the filter.
  3. Turn on the coffee maker and wait for it to finish brewing.
  4. As soon as the coffee is finished brewing, pour it into your mug and add any desired milk or sweetener.

For a better flavor and enjoyment, drink it while it is still hot.

Note for Readers

When you read, it is important to identify the mode of organization as process analysis (or steps in a process) because it focuses your reading and improves comprehension.

You should pay attention to the process. Where does the process start and end? What are the steps in between? What are the important details at each stage of the process? Are there steps with multiple alternatives or paths?

If you are taking notes, you can outline or draw the process showing how each leads up to the next.

Up Next: Division or Classification Mode

Continue the lesson to learn about the division or classification mode of organization.