Instructions for the User Manual (Return to the English 2311 Syllabus) . Part 1: The Written User Manual Following the discussion in Technically Write!  you are to compose a "user manual" that explains, step by step 1) how to operate a piece of office equipment or 2) how to conduct a significant procedure.  Some common pieces of office equipment include such items as fax machines, software programs, telephone systems, computer networks, and copiers.  Office procedures might include data recording, file management, training procedures, processing orders, developing and submitting reports, or conducting staff meetings.  The "user manual" should reflect the following guidelines: . 1) Approximately 500 to 800 words in length . 2) Concise but complete explanation that anticipates the successful completion of the task by the reader . 3) Use of appropriate graphic aids (headings, subheadings, bulleted/numbered lists, figures, illustrations) . 4) Consistency in layout, outline, design, text font, quality of graphics, level of discussion . Click here to access a sample student User Manual completed for this course. . Part 2: The PowerPoint Outline The second part of this project requires the completion of an outline of the user manual that you would use in demonstrating the piece of equipment or explaining the process to an audience.  Follow the guidelines found in "Suggestions for Developing Your PowerPoint Presentation." . Click here to access a sample student User Manual PowerPoint outline completed for this course. . This page was last modified on January 2, 2009, and is maintained by Dr. Geoffrey A. Grimes. . .