Using Parallel Structure in Procedure Headings
Using Parallel Structure in Procedure Headings records a distinct source-supported writing task while keeping adjacent procedure choices and implementation mechanics outside the page.
Use a consistent phrasing pattern across related procedure headings, such as parallel verb-led task names.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Parallelism is a consistency technique for related headings, not a requirement that every heading in an entire document use identical wording.
Further guidance
Content
Use a consistent phrasing pattern across related procedure headings, such as parallel verb-led task names.
Purpose
Parallel heading structure makes a set of procedures easier to scan and compare.
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.