a list of steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a list of steps" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a sequence of actions or procedures that need to be followed to achieve a specific goal. Example: "To complete the project successfully, please follow this list of steps carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"An algorithm is just a list of steps to complete a task," she said.

The New Yorker

Microsoft has a list of steps to take at snipurl.com/c35ms.

The New York Times - Tech

They begin with an introductory description, then offer a list of steps to follow.

The New York Times - Tech

Convergent thinking is linear, involving going through a list of steps to get to a single correct answer.

Harvard Business Review

He ticked through a list of steps he has taken to try to improve the economy, create jobs and lower taxes for middle-class Americans.

The New York Times

A budget office study ranked extending the Bush tax cuts at the bottom of a list of steps for expanding output and employment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Most EHR classes are taught by an instructor at the front of the room who runs through a list of step-by-step instructions.

Huffington Post

Again, a list of standard, step-by-step procedures was made for the assessment, and a checklist was designed.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Then, ask students to brainstorm a list of what steps or processes went into creating each product.

The New York Times

The Ski Club of Great Britain has issued a list of 7 Steps To Preserve the Mountains (skiclub.co.uk).

The Guardian - Travel

Based on reflections on past mediation efforts, the authors propose a list of generic steps to guide future efforts.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a list of steps", ensure the steps are clearly defined, logically sequenced, and actionable. This enhances clarity and usability for the intended audience.

Common error

Avoid creating a "list of steps" that lacks essential actions or assumes prior knowledge. Always aim for comprehensiveness and clarity to prevent user frustration and ensure successful completion of the process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a list of steps" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It denotes a set of instructions or actions arranged in a specific order, designed to achieve a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a list of steps" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a sequence of actions or procedures needed to complete a task. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to science and academic writing. Its primary function is to provide guidance or instructions, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. When employing this phrase, ensure the steps are clearly defined and logically ordered. Alternatives like "a series of actions" or "a step-by-step guide" may be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of actions

Replaces "list" with "series", focusing on the sequence rather than the format.

step-by-step guide

Focuses on how the information will be presented to the audience

a sequence of procedures

Substitutes both "list" and "steps" with more formal and technical terms.

a checklist of tasks

Emphasizes the action-oriented nature of the steps.

an ordered sequence

Emphasizes the ordered nature of the steps more strongly.

the protocol

A single term that refers to an accepted sequence of steps

a set of guidelines

Shifts the focus to providing general direction rather than specific actions.

the itinerary

Refers to a route of travel with stops at different steps

a course of action

Suggests a planned approach to deal with a situation.

a program of measures

Emphasizes the impact that a sequence of steps might have on a topic

FAQs

How can I use "a list of steps" in a sentence?

You can use "a list of steps" to describe a procedure or process. For example, "The manual provides "a list of steps" to assemble the furniture."

What are some alternatives to saying "a list of steps"?

Alternatives include "a series of actions", "a sequence of procedures", or "a step-by-step guide" depending on the context.

Is it better to provide "a list of steps" or a narrative description?

The choice depends on the audience and complexity. "A list of steps" is ideal for straightforward tasks, while a narrative description might be better for complex processes requiring explanation and context.

What makes "a list of steps" effective?

An effective "list of steps" is clear, concise, and complete. Each step should be actionable and logically sequenced to guide the user through the process successfully.