Explanation
Exercises
A2 Writing · Lesson 16

Write Simple Instructions

Learn how to explain a simple process clearly so another person can follow your steps from beginning to end.

A2 Simple instructions 20 min 65–75 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4

Learn how to organise steps, use imperative verbs, add practical details, and finish with a clear result.

Learning objective

In this lesson, you will learn how to write simple step-by-step instructions, use imperative verbs such as wash, cut, put, add, mix, and serve, organise actions with First, Next, Then, and Finally, add practical details such as quantities and time, and finish with a clear result.

Model text

First, wash one tomato and half a cucumber, then cut them into small pieces. Next, put the vegetables in a bowl and add some cooked pasta. Add a little olive oil, salt, and lemon juice. Mix everything well with a spoon. Then, add some cheese if you like. Put the salad in the fridge for ten minutes. Finally, serve it cold and enjoy your simple pasta salad.

How to write

1
Start with the first action.

First, wash one tomato and half a cucumber.

2
Use imperative verbs for instructions.

Cut them into small pieces. Put the vegetables in a bowl.

3
Use sequencing words to show the order.

Next, add some cooked pasta. Then, add some cheese.

4
Add useful details.

Add a little olive oil. Put the salad in the fridge for ten minutes.

5
Finish with the final action or result.

Finally, serve it cold and enjoy your pasta salad.

Useful phrases

First, ...
Next, ...
Then, ...
After that, ...
Finally, ...
Wash...
Cut...
Put...
Add...
Mix...
Wait for...
Serve...

Language focus

Use imperative verbs:

Wash the vegetables.

Add a little salt.

Mix everything well.

Do not write You wash the vegetables for every instruction.

Show the order:

First, prepare the ingredients.

Next, put them in a bowl.

Then, mix everything.

Finally, serve the food.

Remember:
One instruction should tell the reader what to do.
Put the steps in the order they happen.
Add details when they help: for ten minutes, into small pieces, a little oil.
Use if for optional steps: Add cheese if you like.
Exercises:
1
2
3
Exercise 1 · Language

Choose the correct sentence

Choose the clearest and most natural language for simple step-by-step instructions.

Practise imperative verbs, sequencing words, useful details, and optional steps.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
Which sentence is the best instruction?
2
Which word best introduces the second step?
3
Which sentence is correct?
4
Which negative instruction is correct?
5
Which sentence gives an optional step?
6
Which sentence is the best final step?
Exercise 2 · Structure

Build clear instructions

Choose the sentence that best continues the instructions in a logical order.

Practise the order: prepare → add → mix → wait → finish.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
What is the best first step?
2
What should come after washing the vegetables?
3
Which is the best next step?
4
What should happen before the salad goes into the fridge?
5
Which step should come near the end?
6
What is the best ending?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write simple instructions

Write clear step-by-step instructions for a simple everyday process. Put the actions in order, use imperative verbs, add useful details, and finish with the final result.

Complete the sixteenth A2 Writing lesson.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4

Write about 65–75 words. Make the steps easy for another person to follow.

Your task

Choose a simple everyday process, for example making a snack or drink, using an app, preparing something, or doing a small household task. Write instructions for another person.

  • write the actions in a clear logical order
  • use at least three sequencing words such as First, Next, Then, After that, or Finally
  • use several imperative verbs such as wash, cut, put, add, mix, open, click, choose, wait, or serve
  • include at least two useful practical details such as quantity, time, place, size, or method
  • write at least five clear action steps
  • add an optional or helpful detail if appropriate
  • finish with a clear final action or result
First, ...Next, ...Then, ...After that, ...Finally, ...Wash...Cut...Put...Add...Mix...Wait for...If you like...Make sure...Serve...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 65–75

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
•Write about 65–75 words
•Use at least three sequencing words
•Use several clear imperative verbs
•Include at least five action steps
•Add at least two useful practical details
•Show a clear beginning, middle, and final step
•Add an optional, warning, or helpful detail
•Finish with a clear final action or result
•Use clear complete instruction sentences
AI feedback

Pass the lesson check first, then get detailed AI feedback.