Formatting Single-Step Procedures With a Bullet
Formatting Single-Step Procedures With a Bullet records a distinct source-supported writing task while keeping adjacent procedure choices and implementation mechanics outside the page.
For a single-step procedure, use a bullet instead of a number when you want formatting consistent with step-by-step instructions; regular paragraph text can also be appropriate.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Microsoft presents the bullet as an option for consistent procedural formatting, not as the only valid treatment for every one-step instruction.
Further guidance
Content
For a single-step procedure, use a bullet instead of a number when you want formatting consistent with step-by-step instructions; regular paragraph text can also be appropriate.
Purpose
A bullet avoids implying a sequence where there is only one step while preserving procedural visual structure.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Writing step-by-step instructions — Microsoft Style Guide (opens in a new tab)Microsoft · Current Microsoft Style Guide evidence for structuring single- and multi-step procedures, procedure headings, step grouping, completion actions, and concise step writing.