Which of the following is not a good suggestion for writing clear Standard Operating Procedures?

• A. Use clear figures and diagrams to reinforce steps and statements
• B. Use acronyms without defining them
• C. Keep all steps stated in chronological order
• D. Use simple words and short sentences

Answer: (B)

Clear, unambiguous language is essential in SOPs so anyone can perform the task reliably, even new staff. Visual aids like figures and diagrams reinforce written steps and help readers grasp the sequence quickly. Presenting every action in the exact order expected, in chronological flow, makes the procedure easier to follow and reduces skipping steps. Using simple words and short sentences minimizes cognitive load and lowers the chance of misinterpretation or error. However, using acronyms without defining them introduces ambiguity—readers may not know what the acronym stands for, or may interpret it differently. SOPs should be self-contained; if acronyms are used, define them on first use and provide a glossary so all readers can understand. In practice, define terms and use plain language throughout to maximize clarity and safety.