Procedure Text: Definition, Purpose, Structure, and Example
Have you ever read a recipe, a manual, or instructions on how to use something? If yes, you have read a procedure text.
In this lesson, we will learn what procedure text is, its purpose, its generic structure, its language features, and a simple example. The explanation is written in easy English, so beginners can understand it better.
What Is Procedure Text?
Procedure text is a text that explains how to do something or how to make something step by step. The steps must be clear and in the correct order, so readers can follow them easily.
Procedure text helps readers understand the steps to do or make something.
Social Function of Procedure Text
The social function of procedure text is to explain how something is done through a sequence of actions or steps. In simple words, procedure text gives instructions to the readers.
Generic Structure of Procedure Text
A procedure text usually has three main parts:
1. Goal
The goal tells what the text is about. It is usually written as the title.
Example: How to Make a Cup of Tea
2. Materials
Materials are the things or tools needed. This part is optional because not all procedure texts need materials.
Example: tea bag, hot water, sugar, cup
3. Steps
Steps explain the actions that readers must follow. The steps should be written in order.
Example: First, boil the water. Then, put the tea bag into the cup.
Language Features of Procedure Text
- Using simple present tense: Pour the water into the cup.
- Using imperative sentences: Add some sugar.
- Using action verbs: cut, mix, pour, press, turn on, prepare
- Using sequence words: first, second, then, after that, finally
- Using adverbs or phrases: slowly, carefully, for five minutes, until it is cooked
Example of Procedure Text
How to Make a Cup of Tea
🎯 Goal
To make a simple cup of tea.
🧂 Materials
- one tea bag
- hot water
- sugar
- a cup
- a spoon
📝 Steps
- First, prepare a cup and a tea bag.
- Second, put the tea bag into the cup.
- Then, pour hot water into the cup.
- After that, add some sugar if you like.
- Next, stir the tea with a spoon.
- Finally, your tea is ready to drink.
Why Is Procedure Text Important?
Procedure text is important because it helps people do things correctly. With clear steps, readers can understand what they need to do from the beginning until the end.
Practice Questions
Try to answer these questions first. Click Show Answer only after you have your own answer.
1. What is the purpose of procedure text?
The purpose of procedure text is to explain how to do or make something step by step.
2. What are the three main parts of procedure text?
The three main parts are goal, materials, and steps.
3. Is “Add some sugar” an imperative sentence?
Yes, it is. It gives an instruction to the reader.
4. Mention two sequence words used in procedure text.
Examples: first, second, then, after that, next, finally.
5. Why should the steps be written in order?
The steps should be written in order so readers can follow the instructions easily and correctly.
More Examples of Procedure Text
You can also learn from these examples:
Learn a simple example of procedure text about using a phone.
🥚 How to Boil an EggRead another procedure text example with clear steps.
Conclusion
Procedure text is a text that explains how to do or make something. It usually consists of goal, materials, and steps. To write a good procedure text, make sure your steps are clear, simple, and in the correct order.
Keep practicing by writing simple procedure texts from your daily activities, such as making tea, cooking noodles, or using an application.
