How to Develop Task Summaries for Soldier's Manuals. Volume 2. Developer's Guide
Abstract
A method for improving printed instructions was developed and presented in a guidebook for writers of Soldier's Manuals. The research involved revision of a wide variety of examples, formulation of rules inherent in those revisions, derivation of a taxonomy of tasks to make the method specifically applicable to each kind of task. The method involves increasing directness, particularly in relating text and illustrations, to sharply reduce the burden on short-term memory. It also involves giving sufficient information to specify each response, rather than relying upon vague assumptions about 'level of background.' Effective revisions almost always involve many fewer words, fewer details, but greater specificity, than the original instructions; so one kind of instructions generally is best for novice and expert alike. A demonstration experiment involved instructions on filling out a standard maintenance form. The revision reduced errors in checking entries by 64%; the people indicated greater confidence when following the revised instructions, and found them much easier to understand (p < .01, each result).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA135421
Entities
People
- E. E. Miller
- L. E. Lyons
Organizations
- Human Resources Research Organization