TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
How far you in breaking down a procedure depends on your audience. I agree
that one step should still only include one action - but it depends on what you
define as the action -- each mouse click, or getting to the Add/Remove programs
window?
Very novice readers might need the sort of detail provided in your MicroSoft
example; but anyone who has worked in Windows for more than a few hours would
quickly get frustrated.
I would say, "From the Start menu, chose Settings->Control Panel->Add/Remove
Programs." I'm not sure the notation matters as long as it is consistent and
clear.
--
Scott Wahl
Customer Documentation and Training
Bridgewater Systems Corporation
(613) 591-6655 x.2579
