Professional Communication Multiple Choice Questions on “Writing Instructions”.
1. Which of these is a set of instructions?
a) Report
b) Letter
c) Notice
d) Operating manual
Answer: d
Clarification: A machine carries an operating manual. This is a list of instructions to a person who wishes to operate the machine.
2. Which of these does not have an operating manual?
a) Televisions
b) Telephones
c) Pens
d) Washing machines
Answer: c
Clarification: An operating manual is a list of step-by-step instructions to assist a person in operating a particular machine. Operating manuals exist for household goods like washing machines, televisions, air-conditioners and so on. One doesn’t need a manual to know how to use a pen.
3. An operating manual is the same as repairing manual.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b
Clarification: The statement is false. An operating manual is different from a repairing manual. A technical instruction must fulfill the purpose for which it is written.
4. Which of these must be avoided in an instruction?
a) Ambiguity
b) Less words
c) Precision
d) Clarity
Answer: a
Clarification: An instruction must state facts precisely and in as few words as is possible. It must be free from ambiguity and it must be imperative.
5. A technical instruction must begin with _______
a) an introduction
b) a figure
c) a drawing
d) a warning
Answer: a
Clarification: The correct statement is: A technical instruction must begin with an introduction which must tell the reader about the process and what needs to be done.
6. Which of these can be used for better understanding of an instruction?
a) Longer sentences
b) Figures
c) Ambiguity
d) Complex words
Answer: b
Clarification: A technical instruction must be free from ambiguity and it must be imperative. Figures, drawings and photographs may be used to achieve better understanding.
7. Warnings against misuse should be included.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Clarification: The statement is true. Warnings against misuse or wrong use should be included to prevent damage or loss.
8. Which of these is advisable for instructions?
a) Long sentences
b) Detailed information
c) Imperative sentences
d) Complex sentences
Answer: c
Clarification: It is advisable to use imperative sentences. Instead of saying “The apparatus should be washed.”, it is better to say “Wash the apparatus.“
9. Which is the last step in a technical instruction?
a) Introduction
b) Steps
c) Drawing
d) Conclusion
Answer: d
Clarification: The sentences in an instruction should be short and simple. A conclusion may be included as a summary to what has been stated earlier.
10. Which of these words can be used for omission?
a) Normally
b) er
c) etc
d) Generally
Answer: b
Clarification: Words like etc., normally, generally may be used to avoid possible omission of an essential feature.