The process essay is writing that seeks to explain the way that an idea or thing is done or the way that an idea or thing works by giving a step-by-step explanation. The explanation may be about a concrete process (how to prepare a meal or how to plant flowers) or an abstract process (how to build self-esteem or how to overcome grief).

Three Keys to explaining a Process:

1. Present the essential steps in the process.

2. Explain the steps in detail.

3. Present the steps in a logical order (usually chronological).

Explaining your Steps:

This is an important step in writing a process essay. You must present the essential steps in enough detail and logical order that your readers could perform the steps themselves or at least understand how something works.

Thesis Statement of a Process Essay:

The thesis statement usually includes the process being analyzed and the point the writer wants to make about it.

Example:

(process) Applying for a passport

(point about the process) is tedious.

How to Write an Effective Process Essay:

1. Present your stages and steps in chronological order. It is important to have your ideas in the correct order and they must follow the actual order in which they would be performed, from beginning to end.
   1. Divide your process into at least three major steps. Each major step or stage in the process paper must relate to a paragraph that expounds and also give details of the steps included in that particular stage.
   1. Create a paragraph on materials. This can be placed directly after the introduction as it is needed to provide details to address essential materials.
   1. Use transitional words that are specific to time. These words include after, as, at last, before, during, eventually, finally, first, last, later, meanwhile, next, now, second, since, soon, then, when, and while. They provide the framework for moving from one step to the next, or where you attempt to establish a pattern or sequence.
   1. Avoid using imperative sentences. This means that you should avoid using the imperative second person point of view, such as “Mix the water and dye, then stir for approximately two minutes” because this will sound more like you are writing an instruction manual rather than a well-developed process essay. Hence, use either first- or third-person point of view.

Remember that:

A process paper should not sound like an instruction manual. It should flow smoothly and not be choppy. Keep the following points in mind as you write the process paper.

• Expect possible misunderstandings on the part of the reader and, if necessary, tell the reader what should not be done.
• Provide reasons why certain steps are performed if these steps seem extreme or pointless.
• Define terms that are not familiar or clear to the reader.