Tutorials & Walkthroughs

What is the difference between a user guide or manual, and a tutorial or walkthrough? The answer may perhaps be better understood by examining the difference between a guide and a tutor:

A guide takes you on a deliberately ambling journey throughout which interesting points of note will be brought to your attention, though not necessarily in any particular order, and at the end of which you will be returned to where you started, minus your fee.

A tutor teaches someone to accomplish something they were previously unable to understood or perform.

Although it is not the intention of user guides to lead you on such a winding path, this they invariably manage to achieve. Tutorials are usually written by people whose prime intention is to pass on knowledge, especially that which relates to practical accomplishment.

It is for this reason that an increasing number of us are using online tutorials and walkthroughs to learn how to use software, computers and many other, usually technical items or products.

Interestingly, a number of companies are catching on to this, aware that not only are many people generally more willing to follow a detailed tutorial than read a text book, but that the content can be online, regularly updated, and added to over time.

Since much of the tutorial will be text based, it makes sense to make sure that this has been written in a style which is easy to follow and easy to understand, preferably making no assumptions when it comes to prior understanding on the part of the consumer.

In some cases companies or organization have provided printed walkthroughs to help users get started with a product, and when simple, easy to follow text is combined with clear drawings or illustrations, the result usually means that the customer is more quickly able to begin using the product, and will feel far more contended and satisfied with his or her purchase.

It should not be underestimated just how much impact the ease and accessibility of user guides, tutorials or manuals can have on your sales. A poorly written, hard to follow guide is more likely to ut off a customer from further sales with the company. On the other hand, a customer who feels that the company really understands his needs, and helps him to get started with the product quickly and effectively may well feel more loyal towards them in the future.

When you realize that your user guides, tutorials and other support literature could help to create a loyal customer or dismiss any further sales, it makes sense to get this part right.

For further information about writing tutorials, walkthroughs, user guides and manuals, or to discuss any other projects or writing needs you may have, please use the contact link at the top of the page.