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Process analysis is the method of development used to explain how something works or how a task is performed. The process is described step-by-step, and concludes by relating the end result of the process.  

Two main types of processes exist:

INFORMATIONAL PROCESS – step-by-step explanation of how something works.

DIRECTIONAL PROCESS – step-by-step explanation of how to perform a task.

Whether you write an informational or a directional process paper, the general format is the same.  In the introduction, give an overview of the process, describe any items needed to complete the process and indicate where the process begins.  In each subsequent paragraph, describe a step in the process with the topic sentence of the paragraph summarizing that step.  The supporting details in the paragraph describe exactly what to do or what happens at that step in the process.  Finally, in the conclusion indicate where the process ends. 

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