Elements of Language: Introductory Course, Chapter 3

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Writer's Model

"How-to" Paper

You are probably an expert at something. Writing a "how-to" paper is a way of sharing your skills with other people. By giving clear instructions, you can teach others how to do something or how to make something.

Many "how-to" papers use the structure illustrated in the framework below. Print this framework and use it as a guide when you write your own "how-to" paper.

Introduction
• Attention-grabbing opening
• Identification of product
• Reason(s) for making the product

Grab your readers' attention Asking a question is a good way to get your readers involved with your paper. You can also attract interest by telling a story or setting a scene.
Push your product Give your readers reasons to make the product. Let your readers know what the product will do for them.

Body
• List of materials
• Step 1 (with specific language)
• Step 2 (with specific language)
• Step 3 (with specific language)
and so on

List the materials Let your readers know what materials they will need to make the product. You can list the materials in the order that your readers will use them or in order of importance.
Explain each step Tell your readers how to make the product in step-by-step order. Write each step in chronological order, and make sure to explain terms that your readers might not understand.

Conclusion
• Restatement of reason(s) and/or
• Suggestions for using or displaying the product

Wrap it up Conclude by reminding your readers of the product's benefits. You might also give some advice about other uses for the product.