Following Instructions — Deep Dive Learning

Read, understand and follow written instructions accurately

Why do instructions matter?

  • Instructions tell us exactly how to do something.
  • They are used for cooking, medicines, appliances, and work tasks.
  • Following instructions correctly keeps you safe and gets things done right.
  • Instructions usually use numbered steps or bullet points.
  • Always read all the steps before you start.

How instructions are written

  • Instructions start with a verb (action word): Mix, Add, Press, Turn.
  • They are usually numbered so you follow them in order.
  • Short, clear sentences are used — one action per step.
  • Important warnings are often in CAPITALS or bold text.
  • Do not skip steps — each one matters.

Reading instructions carefully

  • Read all instructions from start to finish before beginning.
  • Look out for quantities: 2 cups, 30 minutes, 3 tablets.
  • Check for warnings: "Do not mix with water."
  • If a step is unclear, re-read it or ask for help.
  • Skipping or guessing steps can cause mistakes or danger.

Checking you have done it right

  • After each step, check you have done it correctly.
  • Do not move to the next step until the current one is complete.
  • At the end, review the result against what was expected.
  • If something went wrong, go back and check where you may have gone wrong.

Worked Examples

Example: Making a hot drink

  1. Step 1: Boil water in the kettle.
  2. Step 2: Place a tea bag in a mug.
  3. Step 3: Pour boiling water into the mug.
  4. Step 4: Wait 3 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Remove the tea bag.
  6. Step 6: Add milk and sugar if desired.

Example: Medicine instructions

  1. "Take 2 tablets twice daily with food."
  2. Dose: 2 tablets.
  3. Frequency: twice daily (morning and evening).
  4. Condition: with food (not on an empty stomach).
  5. Action: take 2 tablets at breakfast and 2 at dinner.

Practice Problems

  • Instructions say "Add 2 cups of water." You add 1 cup. What might go wrong?
    Hint: Think about what happens when you use too little of an ingredient.
    Answer: The mixture may be too dry or not work correctly
  • You are on step 3 of 5. You skip to step 5. Why is this a problem?
    Hint: Each step builds on the previous one.
    Answer: Steps 4 and 5 may not work correctly without completing step 3 first
  • Instructions say "Do NOT heat above 60°C." Why is this warning important?
    Hint: Warnings prevent danger or damage.
    Answer: Heating above 60°C could be dangerous or damage the product

Challenge Question

Rewrite these muddled instructions in the correct order: "4. Let it cool for 5 mins. 2. Place in oven at 200C. 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 3. Bake for 25 minutes. 5. Serve on a plate."

Hint: Look at the numbers - they tell you the real order. Put them in sequence 1-5.

Answer: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Place in oven at 200C. 3. Bake for 25 minutes. 4. Let it cool for 5 mins. 5. Serve on a plate.

The numbers show the correct sequence. Mixing comes before baking, baking before cooling, and cooling before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake: Doing steps out of order because you skimmed ahead
    Correction: Always read ALL steps first, then follow them one at a time
    Why: Reading ahead helps you prepare, but always complete each step before moving on.
  • Mistake: Ignoring the word "before" in instructions
    Correction: "Wash hands before cooking" means washing happens FIRST
    Why: Words like before, after, then, first, and finally indicate the order of steps.
  • Mistake: Thinking you can skip optional safety steps
    Correction: Safety steps (like "wear gloves") protect you and should not be skipped
    Why: Even if labelled optional, safety instructions are there for good reason.
Start the interactive Following Instructions lesson →