Writing Basic Action Steps

DOE-STD-1029-92

4.1

Writing Basic Action Steps

EXAMPLE 4-1. Basic action step.

Direct Object

Supportive Information

Action Verb

Label

the actuator disposal can

with Identification Tag Form 45

NOTE

In many requirements documents, required actions are expressed by

using "shall" in declarative sentences (for example, "The manager shall

approve the completed work order" for "Approved storage shall be

provided for classified documents"). The words "will", "should," and

"must" are similarly used. In procedures governed by the guidelines in

this writer's guide, this type of sentence is not used to express required

actions. Imperative sentences (commands) are used instead, as illustrated

throughout this guide.

[1]

Start the basic action step with a singular present tense action verb such as open.

Appendix E of this guide includes a list of suggested action verbs.

[2]

Describe the direct object of the verb.

[a] Identify equipment precisely as it is in the facility.

[b] If the equipment is not labeled within the facility, use equipment nomenclature

precisely as it appears in the procedure basis documentation.

[c] Avoid using acronyms and abbreviations when writing action steps, particularly

for short, simple words and terms. If an acronym or abbreviation is used, it

must (a) be easily understood by the users and (b) have a standardized and

unique meaning for the users.

[d] Use only acronyms and abbreviations that are included in an approved, site-

specific list.

[3]

Complete the basic action step with supportive information about the action verb

and the direct object. Supportive information includes further description of the

object and the recipient of the object. Acceptance criteria, referencing,

and branching are other types of supportive information that are described later in

this section.