The Basics of Writing Good Directions and Recipes #7
#7 Combine associated steps into a single notation.
It’s a great idea to save on page space by combining associated steps into a single notation. Examples below.
COMBINED-
- Heat oil in skillet, over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, diced potatoes, black pepper and half the salt. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
NOT COMBINED-
- Set burner to medium high heat.
- Heat oil
- Add diced potatoes
- Add minced garlic
- Add black pepper
- Add half the salt
- Cook uncovered for 10 minutes
- Stir occasionally.
While you might think you’re being as descriptive as possible, you’re not. By the time you finish writing this recipe it’s gonna be on 3 pages long. It’s a recipe not sheet music.
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