Process Description

A process description is a detailed explanation of how something works or how a particular activity is carried out. It is commonly used in technical communication, instruction manuals, laboratory procedures, and academic writing. The primary aim of a process description is to present information logically, clearly, and step by step, so that the reader can understand the sequence of actions or events.

Tense Used in Process Description

The most appropriate tense is the simple present tense, often in the passive voice, because the steps describe actions that are generally true, repeated, or followed universally.

• Example tenses:

  • “The mixture is heated …”

  • “The user presses the button…”

  • “The machine mixes the ingredients,” 

  • or “The system automatically sends a confirmation mail.”

Using these forms makes the description neutral, objective, and easy to follow.

Use of Transitional Words

To ensure clarity and logical flow, process descriptions use transitional words and phrases such as first, next, then, after that, meanwhile, finally, in the last stage, subsequently, eventually, etc. These help the reader follow the sequence without confusion.

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Example 1: Process Description of How Electricity Is Generated in a Thermal Power Plant

Electricity generation in a thermal power plant follows a systematic and well-regulated sequence. First, coal is transported to the plant and crushed into fine powder to increase its burning efficiency. Next, this powdered coal is burned in a large furnace, where the heat produced converts water in the boiler tubes into high-pressure steam. Then, the steam is directed onto the blades of a turbine, causing it to spin rapidly. After that, the rotating turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which uses electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Meanwhile, the steam leaving the turbine is passed through a condenser, where it is cooled and converted back into water. Finally, this water is pumped back into the boiler to repeat the cycle. Throughout the process, strict monitoring systems ensure efficiency and safety. This entire procedure demonstrates how thermal energy is transformed into electrical power through a continuous and controlled mechanism.

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Example 2: Process Description of How Plastic Bottles Are Recycled

The recycling of plastic bottles involves a series of carefully organized steps designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability. To begin with, used plastic bottles are collected from households, recycling bins, and waste management centres. Next, these bottles are transported to a recycling facility, where workers and machines sort them based on colour, type, and material composition. Then, the sorted bottles are thoroughly washed to remove labels, adhesives, and any remaining liquid. After that, the clean bottles are fed into a shredding machine, which cuts them into small flakes. Subsequently, these flakes are melted at controlled temperatures to form plastic pellets. In the next stage, the pellets are cooled, dried, and packed for distribution to manufacturing companies. Finally, these pellets are used to produce new items such as clothing fibres, containers, or even new bottles. By following this process, the recycling industry ensures that plastic waste is transformed into reusable material through a structured and efficient method.

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Example 3: Process Description of How an ATM Withdrawal Works

Withdrawing money from an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is a straightforward process that operates with a combination of software and mechanical functions. First, the user inserts their ATM card into the machine’s card slot, which activates the system. Next, the user is prompted to enter their confidential Personal Identification Number (PIN). Then, the machine verifies the details with the bank’s server to authenticate the user. After successful verification, the user selects the withdrawal option and enters the desired amount. Following this, the ATM checks the availability of funds in the user’s account. If the request is approved, the cash-dispensing unit counts and dispenses the correct amount through the cash outlet. Meanwhile, the system records the transaction and updates the user’s account balance. Finally, the machine prints a receipt (if selected) and returns the card. This sequence shows how digital processing, security checks, and mechanical operations work together to complete a simple banking task.

What is a Process?

Process Description

What Does Describing a Process Mean?

•    Describing a Process means writing about how something is made or how something happens.

•    Examples:

•    i) Rainwater Cycle

•    ii) how coffee is grown

•    iii) how glass is made

Process Description-How to make Tea

Note: Use Transitional Devices/ words/ phrases/expressions while writing the process description.

Link to know about Transitional Devices: Transitional Devices/ Words/ Phrases/ Expressions Explained

Process Description –Example

How to Make Chocolate

Chocolate is a known favorite among people of all age group. The process of preparing chocolate is an age-old method. The main ingredients required for the preparation of chocolate is cocoa. Initially the cocoa beans are first roasted in a temperature of 300 degrees for 30 minutes.
The cocoa beans are then felt for cooling. The husk is removed. The cocoa beans are then made into small pieces, which are crushed using a pepper grinder. Next, these crushed particles are turned into brown mush, after which the cocoa bean paste is ready.
Then this coca bean paste is heated in large pan which is then grinded through mortar grinding. Next sugar, milk and flavor is added which is poured into mold of desired shape and size. At last, this is left to cool which is cut into small bars. Finally, they ready to serve and eat.