Following and writing instructions (grammar)

When you see instructions on signs, or in recipes or DIY manuals they are usually written using the imperative.
The imperative is formed by using the verb [the action word] without 'to' or any noun or pronoun in front of it.
E.G: 'You need to turn left at the Post office' becomes 'Turn left at the post office.'

This type of instruction doesn't say WHO has to follow it.

Here are some examples of instructions written using the imperative:

This type of instruction isn't written as a full sentence. Imperative instructions are often written as a list, you start at the top and you work down. The list may be numbered, or may have bullet points.

Imperative instructions should never be used when you are writing formally, for example in a letter to the bank.

If you see the imperative (E.G: 'Cook for 5 minutes') then you know you are looking at a set of instructions. You can find imperative instructions all over the place, they may be on a microwave meal, on a jar of medicine, or on a tin of paint. Look out for them especially on signs and notices.