Giving instructions -ELCS
G iving Instructions We use the imperative form to give orders or directions in English. “Eat your vegetables!” “Turn left and go straight on.” We can also use the imperative form to give a warning or advice, and (if you use “please”) to make a request. “Practise English for ten minutes a day!” “Be careful!” “Please take a seat.” To make the imperative, use the infinitive of the verb without ‘to’: “ Come here!” “ Sit down!” To make a negative imperative, put “do not” or “don’t” before the verb. (Don’t is more informal than “do not”.) “ Don’t go!” “ Do not walk on the grass.” Giving instructions You often see the imperative form in instruction manuals or when someone tells you how to do something. There are often “sequencing” words to show the steps in the process. For example, “firstly”, “secondly” and “finally”. Simple instructions to replace a light bulb Firstly , turn off the electricity. Secondly , remove the light bulb. Then , screw in the new light bulb. Fi...