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A process analysis essay may also be called a how-to essay. However, a process analysis essay does not necessarily tell you how to do something; it may also explain how something works. Whichever approach you are asked to take, a process analysis essay draws on the skills you have learned from expository writing, but is also significantly different from a normal expository essay. Instead, it is similar to technical writing. This similarity is true, whether you are writing a traditional how-to essay or a more complex essay explaining how something works.
In the introduction of your process analysis essay, you need to introduce the reader to the goal of the essay. If your essay is of the “how to” variety, then you need to let the reader know what you are going to be telling them how to do. In addition, it is helpful to give them an idea of how involved the process is, how long the process might take, and any ingredients or special equipment they will need for the process. If your essay is of the descriptive variety, then your introduction should inform the reader about the process that will be described, including reasons for the process.
How to approach the body of a process analysis essay will depend on what type of essay you are writing. However, whether you are writing a how-to essay or a descriptive essay, it is important to write the essay in chronological order. Simply break the process down into easily identifiable steps, then describe those steps. For a how-to essay, it important to remember that you not only want to identify the steps, but also ensure that the reader can ascertain how to accomplish each individual step from the information in the essay. This can involve knowing your audience, and not making unwarranted assumptions about their level of familiarity with the topic.
As with other types of academic writing, the conclusion of your essay will mirror your introduction. You will remind the reader of the process you have been analyzing, describe why the process is useful, and add in helpful tips or suggestions for future changes.