Process analysis paragraph

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Department: Civil Engineering Page 1 2012-2013
Process Analysis
I. Definition
The formal name of the mode is process analysis.
Process = a step-by-step movement from a beginning point to anpointending.
Analysis = a careful examination; a close, detailed look at something.
So, a process paragraph is a series of steps that explain how something
happens or how to make something or to give instructions on how to do
something or to describe how something is done. It is another common
organizational form of writing. Current self-help books on the market entitled
How To . . . are examples of process writing. Process analysis serves readers
well if some simple steps are followed to maintain clarity… It can explain
anything from the way to enrich vocabulary to overcoming insomnia to the
procedure of operating a machine. It may also give tips for improving
pronunciation or for answering a telephone call. Because such explanations
must be clear, the process paragraph must be written in chronological order,
and it must include a topic sentence that clearly states the paragraph’s
purpose. It must also include transition words and phrases such as “first,”
“next,” “finally,” that connect each of the steps.
Process analysis is usually written in third person (e.g., “wise writers leave
plenty of time for revision”) and often includes the passive voice (“when paper
has been edited, It is ready for submission”). Tone of your essay, and the
amount and kind of detail you include will vary depending on your audience
and purpose.

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II. Elements of a Process Analysis Paragraph
Process Analysis paragraphs contain a number of elements that are
indispensable in this kind of writing:
Chronology – all actions are described in a step-by-step manner which means
that the order of in which subsequent actions are described is analogical to the
order in which those actions are to be performed;
Clarity – the instruction is concise and uses simples language. Process
analysis paragraphs, if composed correctly, will never be written in a
descriptive or subjective language and will also avoid opinion-based stances;
Explanation – the paragraph explains how a particular result can be achieved.
Sample:
The problem of hairballs that have already formed in cat’s fur can be solved
by proper brushing. In order to brush your cat’s hairballs, you’ll need two
kinds of brushes: a wide-teeth wipe and a metallic one. The former will help
you dissolve and, partially, remove tightly knotted hairballs without causing
any pain or discomfort to your cat. The latter, used subsequently, will remove
excess of loose puffy hair and decrease the possibility of reoccurrence the next
day. Once brushing is over, make sure to polish your cat’s fur all over his
body with the help of a clean, cotton, or woolen cloth.
III. Type of process analysis paragraphs
As we are aware A process paragraph is a series of steps that explain how
something happens or how to make something or to give instructions on how
to do something or to describe how something is done. There are two basic
types of process writing:

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1. Instructional/directional process: When you explain how to get from the
registrar’s office to make perfect pastry, or any other how to topic, your
purpose is how to enable your readers to perform the process themselves.
Giving instructions or directions is often done in point form: think of a recipe,
for example, or the instructions that come with a child’s toy, a barbecue, or a
piece of furniture from Ikea. Instructions are usually written in the second
person (you) and include commands (e.g., allow to dry for 10 minutes leave
yourself time to revise”).
2. Informational process: This type of process analysis describes how
something is done or is made, or worked. In explaining how hamburger get
from the farm to table, how snow flack, how the stoke market operates; you
don’t expect your readers to be able to reproduce the process. Your purpose is
simply to inform them about it.
IV. Part of Paragraph
Generally, in English paragraph writing there are three parts of paragraph.
Here are Topic Sentence, Supporting Sentence, and concluding sentence. But
these sentences have different function in the paragraph.
In Process analysis paragraph is also divided in three parts. There are Topic
sentence, supporting sentence, and Concluding sentence.
1. Topic Sentence:
The topic sentence names the process and indicates the reason someone
should be interested in knowing about this process. They mention the topic
and use words like “directions,” “steps,” “process” or “procedure.” Topic
sentence is divided in to two parts. They are Topic and Controlling idea.

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Topic: good topic have many steps, but not too many. They are usually useful
to the reader, but they could be humorous instead: for example, “How to
embarrass your teenage daughter” could be a great topic. You will not really
try to teach the reader anything with this topic, but they may laugh at your
ideas.
Note: Topic Sentence It’s time to choose the topic sentence. Complete the
following brain storming activity to decide on a topic. Let’s start by looking at
bad topics. A bad topic for this kind of writing could have any of these
problems:
 Too few steps: like “How to blink your eyes.”
 Too many steps: like “How to design, build, paint, and decorate a new
house.”
 Not interesting enough: “How to turn off a computer.”
 Too specific to one person: “How I get ready for bed every night.”
(Notice, this could be a great topic for a personal essay – but the
controlling idea of this topic is really “Information about me,” not
“Teaching the reader how to do something.”)
Controlling Idea: These paragraphs always have a very similar controlling
idea. It’s something like “My directions for doing __________.” Remember
that a controlling idea reflects the writer’s opinion; your opinion is the steps
you choose to write. Also, the controlling idea may include your opinion of
whether the process is easy or hard to do.
Example: Polygraph Testing
Many people know the terms polygraph and lie detector test, but many are
not familiar with how the test actually works. The test uses a process that
analyzes the physiological reactions in a person's body while he or she
answers questions. First, a device called an anemograph is attached to a
person's chest to record breathing patterns. Any abnormalities in respiratory

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patterns are recorded during an official interview. Next, a machine similar to a
hose used in doctors' offices is attached to the person's upper arm to measure
blood pressure. During this part of the polygraph test, the pulse and changes in
blood pressure and heartbeat are recorded. Finally, skin responses are used as
a part of the lie detection examination. Usually, the tips of a person's fingers
are attached to electrodes. An abnormal amount of sweating is an indicator
that the person may be laying. After the preceding steps have been followed,
polygraph experts analyze the results. From the data, the experts may conclude
that the person is telling the truth, or they may decide that the person is most
likely lying.
2. Supporting Sentence:
The supporting sentences present the steps of the process in a clear manner
and in sequential order. They contain transitional expressions to illustrate the
sequence and to add interest, so that the paragraph doesn't sound like a mere
laundry list.Supporting Sentence List the steps needed in order to accomplish
the process from first to last. Be as simple and clear as possible.
Topic: _______________________________________________
Steps:
1.____________________________________
2.____________________________________
3.____________________________________
4.____________________________________
5. ____________________________________
Example Polygraph Testing

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answers questions. First, a device called a anemograph is attached to a
person's chest to record breathing patterns. Any abnormalities in respiratory
patterns are recorded during an official interview. Next, a machine similar
to a hose used in doctors' offices is attached to the person's upper arm to
measure blood pressure. During this part of the polygraph test, the pulse and
changes in blood pressure and heartbeat are recorded. Finally, skin
responses are used as a part of the lie detection examination. Usually, the
tips of a person's fingers are attached to electrodes. An abnormal amount of
sweating is an indicator that the person may be laying. After the preceding
steps have been followed, polygraph experts analyze the results.From the
data, the experts may conclude that the person is telling the truth, or they may
decide that the person is most likely lying.
3. Concluding Sentence:
The concluding sentence may congratulate the reader on now being able to do
something new, reaffirm the significance of understanding the process, or
summarize the results of the process that summarizes what the reader
accomplished by following the process. Remember that you can use
transitional words.
Concluding Sentence: _____________________________________
Example: Polygraph Testing

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answers questions. First, a device called a anemograph is attached to a person's
chest to record breathing patterns. Any abnormalities in respiratory patterns
are recorded during an official interview. Next, a machine similar to a hose
used in doctors' offices is attached to the person's upper arm to measure blood
pressure. During this part of the polygraph test, the pulse and changes in blood
pressure and heartbeat are recorded. Finally, skin responses are used as a part
of the lie detection examination. Usually, the tips of a person's fingers are
attached to electrodes. An abnormal amount of sweating is an indicator that
the person may be laying. After the preceding steps have been followed,
polygraph experts analyze the results. From the data, the experts may
conclude that the person is telling the truth, or they may decide that the
person is most likely lying.
V. Signal of Transitional
As mentioned earlier, a process analysis paragraph is a type of paragraph that
consists of connected steps. Therefore, the steps in the process must be logical
and are usually explained chronologically. That is, you should write the steps
in the order they are performed which makes the sequence of actions and
events clear. Transition expressions and time words can be used in order to
make the sentences flow together. Thus, the readers will be able to read your
paragraph more smoothly.
Transitions
Conjunctions Prepositi
ons
Adjectives
Linking Words
(Time/Logical
Order)
Subordi
nating
Coordinat
ing
After
Before
The first (thing)
The second

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First (of all)
To begin with
At first
Second
Third
Next
Then
After that
At this point
the first step
in the beginning
first of all
to begin with
to start with
the second step
next
while you are . . .
as you are . . .
eventually
after you have . . .
then
afterward
the last step
the final step
After
Before
Since
When
While
Until
And In
addition
to
Prior to
Since
The third
The next
The last
The final

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USE AND PUNCTUATION NOTE
After common linking words like first, second, third, next, finally, etc., use a
comma. However, comma is not necessary with then.
Example:First/Second/Third/Next, boil the eggs.
Then peel the potatoes.
First can come at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a sentence.
When it is at the beginning, use a comma. When it is in the middle or at the
end of a sentence, comma is not necessary.
Example:First, the chef boiled the eggs.
The chef firstboiled the eggs.
finally
at last
Later on
At last
Last (of all)
In the end
Finally
Firstly, Secondly,
Thirdly, Lastly are
also possible in
British English.

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The chef boiled the eggs first.
Next can come at the beginning or at the end of a sentence. When it is at the
beginning, use a comma. When it is at the end, comma is not necessary.
Example:Next, the chef peeled the potatoes.
The chef peeled the potatoes next.
Then can come at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence. Using then
after the subject and before the verb is more formal. In both cases, comma is
not necessary.
Example:Then the chef set the timer for 10 minutes.
The chef then set the timer for 10 minutes.
Finally can come at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a sentence.
When it is in the middle and at the end, the meaning is “at last”, not the final
step/process. Use a comma when it is at the beginning. Comma is not
necessary when it is in the middle or at the end.
Example: Finally, serve the meal with yoghurt.
The students finally came.
She smiled finally.
After adjectives like the first/second/third/next/last/final + step/thing, comma
is not necessary.
Example: The first step is to boil the eggs.
The next thing you should do is to peel the potatoes.

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Example of using signal transition
It is fairly easy to cook a delicious apple cobbler. First, you will need to have
at least two cupsof apples on hand, and they should be peeled and sliced into
thin crescent shapes. Almost any type of apple will do--either red delicious or
granny style or whatever your local grocery store offers. Next, you will need
about one half cup of sugar for extra added sweetness. Either white granulated
sugar or brown refined will work equally well. (I have used both kinds with
the same success.) Finally, about two sticks of butter or two pounds of
margarine will be necessary to give the cobbler that lip-smacking smoothness
that my family just loves. The actual making of the cobbler is also fairly
simple. You’ll need a very large mixing bowl, into which you will pour all the
carefully cut apple slices as well as the sugar and the butter. Now you’ll need a
rather large fork or spatula to mix and “mush up” all the ingredients together
until they are all fairly well blended. While you have been doing all this, the
oven has been pre-heating to a toasty 425 degrees Fahrenheit. When you think
the mixture is well blended, then place the bowl carefully near the back of the
center oven rack and leave it there for about thirty minutes. After about half
thattime, you will begin to smell the enchanting aroma of baked apples filling
your home, thus telling everyone that the wonderful time of fall is definitely
here.
VI. Instructions in writing process analysis
1. Be sure to take some time and think about the element you want to write about.
Be sure that you are knowledgeable about the element you choose, so that your
process analysis instructions will be clear for the reader. Be sure to draft out
your step-by-step instructions for the element that you are writing about.
2. A Standard Recipe/Format for a Process Analysis Paragraph:

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a).Write 1 clear topic sentence that states the element that you are writing about.
In this sentence, try to include how many steps there are for your instructions.
There should be at least 3 steps and no more than 6 steps.
b).Write 1 sentence that tells the first step in this process.
c) Write 1-2 sentences that provide an explanation or an example of this first
step. Your explanation should tell what this step involves and why this step is
needed.
d) Using a transitional phrase, write 1 sentence that states the second step in
your process.
e) Write 1-2 sentences that explain your second step. Again, your explanation
should tell what the step involves and why it is needed.
f) Using another transitional phrase, write 1 sentence that mentions the third
step in your process.
g) Write 1-2 sentences that fully explain your third step.
h) Write 1 closing sentence that seals off your paragraph.
Note if your process analysis has more then three steps, then simply carry on
after letter (g) and use the same format that appears in (b-g)
3. A student sample of a well developed and focused process analysis paragraph:
The lower case letters are a guideline to show my readers how the paragraph
follows the format in step 2.
(a) Writing a well-developed essay can be easily done in about three to four steps.
(b) The first thing that should be done in order to write a great essay is to
brainstorm.

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(c) Brainstorming allows the writer to take time to think about what he/she wants
to write about. Furthermore, brainstorming helps the writer plan out and
organize his/her thoughts and ideas, which will help with writing a focused
essay.
(d) The second step is to write a first draft and second draft.
(e) Writing out a first and second draft will help the writer determine if he or she is
staying on topic and following through with his/her outline from the brainstorm
process.
(f) The final step is to properly edit your second draft.
(g) When editing your essay, the writer should edit to see if your essay has
sufficient content and is well organized. Furthermore, the writer should edit for
any grammatical or mechanical errors, in order to have a successful essay.
(h) Finally, the essay should be ready to be turned into your professor.
4. A student sample of a well developed and focused process analysis paragraph:
The lower case letters are a guideline to show my readers how the paragraph
follows the format in step 2.
(a) My grandmother's famous bread is easy to make; it can be done in three easy
steps.
(b) The first step is to layout all of the ingredients.
(c) These ingredients include flower, water, sugar, yeast, salt, honey, and two
eggs. Laying out these ingredients will allow you to stay organized when
baking the bread.
(d) The next step in baking my grandmother's famous bread is to mix all the
ingredients in a mixing bowl.

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(e) The best way to mix the ingredients is to mix the flower and water first, and
then add all the other ingredients while mixing. This mixture will help blend all
the flavors together.
(f) The final step for this bread is to bake it in the oven.
(g) When ready to bake it, you should pre-heat the oven to 450 f., and then bake
the bread for about 30 minutes at this same temperate. This temperature and
baking time will allow the bread to cook while keeping all of its moisture;
therefore, the bread will not dry out.
(h) Finally, the bread is ready to serve, so take it out of the oven, let it cool, cut it,
and enjoy.
5. Always properly edit your work for content/organization and
grammar/mechanics.
VII. Paragraph Writing
Concrete Slump Test
To test concrete slump in Civil Engineering. First, you need something some
equipment such as concrete, meter, wheel barrow, cone, board that support
cone, and deformation bar. Second, you pour the concrete in wheel barrow
into cone that supported by board three steps. Each step you hit the concrete
25 times. When you pour the concrete cover the top of the cone, then you hold
the cone slowly and put it on the board. Finally, you take the meter survey the
distance from the concrete that inclined to deformation bar that stay on the top
of the cone. So you will know the concrete slump before you work with and
use it.
Written by: SengPhearun.

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How to Make a Good Cup of Tea
Making a good cup of tea is exquisitely simple. First, the teapot is heated by
filling it with water that has just come to a boil. This water is then discarded,
and one teaspoon of loose tea per cup is placed in the teapot (the exact amount
may vary according to taste). Fresh water that has just come to a boil is poured
into the pot. A good calculation is six ounces of water for each cup of tea. The
tea must now steep for three to five minutes; then it is poured through a
strainer into a cup or mug. A pound of loose tea will yield about two hundred
cups of brewed tea. Using a tea bag eliminates the strainer, but it is still best to
make the tea in a teapot so that the water stays sufficiently hot. The typical
restaurant service a cup of hot water with the tea bag on the side will not
produce the best cup of tea because the water is never hot enough when it
reaches the table and because the tea should not be dunked in the water; the
water should be poured over the tea. Although tea in a pot often becomes too
strong, that problem can be dealt with very easily by adding more boiling
water.
Written by OuSokhom
Process Analysis Writing
To write a good process paragraph, you should pay attention to three
important things. First, make sure that the steps in the process are complete.
Following a procedure whose steps are incomplete will fail to produce the
expected result. Second, present the steps in the right sequence. For example,
if you are describing the process of cleaning an electric mixer, it is important
to point out that you must first unplug the appliance before you remove the
blades. A person could lose a finger if this part of the process were missing.
Improperly written instructions have caused serious injuries and even death.
Finally, use correct transitional words to indicate the sequence of the process

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you are writing. The followings are transitions commonly used in process
analysis.
Written by PorLengeang
How To Be A Good Friend
To be a good friend, an individual has to spend time working on her
friendships, or they will eventually fade. When two people first meet, they
both need to be sure they are acting in good manor, so they don’t scare the
other away. After they meet and start talking a few times, they will start
getting to know each other, calling each other, and spending more time with
each other. That is how a friendship begins. After they call each other
“friends”, the friendship has to be made through the effort of more than just
one person, so each has to do her own part. Friendships shouldn’t take a lot of
money but they do take a lot of time and care. Friends should always listen to
what the other has to say, and then should give advice only when asked for it.
No matter how much friends are alike, everyone has differences, so a friend
should be able to accept their differences. After being a friend to a person for a
long period of time, one might get tired of hearing repeated problems
everyday, but a good friend will always be there for her friend no matter what.
Written by KheangHychhay.

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Reference
From Website
http://www.englishparagraph.com/
http://www.processanalysisparagraph.com/
http://www.englishpage.com/

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Process analysis paragraph

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