Consistency

DOE-STD-1029-92

C Can the user explain in detail how to perform general instructions?

C Can the user perform the procedure without obtaining additional information

from persons or procedures not specified by the procedure?

C Can the user perform the procedure without obtaining direct assistance from

persons not specified by the procedure?

[4]

Ensure that the decision making required in the procedure is consistent with the

user's qualifications and level of authority. This approach permits tasks to be

performed with minimum supervision.

[5]

Exclude information that is useful only to reviewers or other persons not involved

in performing the procedure.

3.1.2 Consistency

One of the most important principles in writing effective technical procedures is to

maintain consistency in procedure style, format, and organization, both within and among

procedures. Inconsistencies can result in users attributing differences in meaning to

spurious differences in presentation. Consistency allows users to move through

documents without having to waste effort interpreting the style of presentation for each

section they encounter. This facilitates comprehension and allows users to concentrate on

the actual performance of the instructions. When employing the guidelines discussed in

this document, maintain consistency!

3.1.3 Writing Style and Language

Narrative prose and paragraph style are inappropriate for writing procedures. Users of

procedures will likely be working under difficult, sometimes very stressful conditions, and

thus procedures should be written so that users can grasp the intended meaning quickly

and easily.

[1]

Communicate instructions using simple and concise language, although not at the

expense of comprehensibility.

[2]

Use action statements to communicate procedure instructions to users.

[3]

Maintain consistency in language (words, definitions) and format among

instrument labelling, procedures, and training.

[4]

Avoid using synonymous terminology merely for the sake of introducing variation.

Use words and phrases consistently throughout procedures.

[5]

Write instructions clearly. The users should not have to infer the meaning.