step-by-step account

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step-by-step account" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a detailed and sequential explanation or narrative of a process or event. Example: "The report provided a step-by-step account of the experiment, detailing each phase and the results obtained."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Step-by-step account of first aid and treatment.

The New Yorker

But in a step-by-step account, he insisted it was Mr. Taylor who killed Ms. Smith.

The New York Times

And it is a painstaking, step-by-step account of how these insurgents' ideas bubbled up into the mainstream.

The New York Times - Books

A 240-page paperback with a step-by-step account of the battle, with maps and official reports by commanding officers.

The New York Times - Arts

Writer gives a step-by-step account of how the chick came out of the eggNit took a couple of days and the chick needed help.

The New Yorker

It somehow allowed me to go through a step-by-step account of the various inconsistencies and terrifying absurdities of the case.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

His gut-punching "Black Hawk Down," about the disastrous 1993 American incursion into Somalia, remains one of the most potent step-by-step accounts of how such grievances assumed center stage.

The New York Times - Books

Representative Patrick T. McHenry of North Carolina said the document was "a clipping service" of previously published findings, and Representative Francisco R. Canseco of Texas called it merely "a step-by-step accounting of the crisis".

The New York Times

The final column ("Mode of facilitating self-efficacy") provides a step-by-step accounting of the system the team developed to increase IK's fidelity to the self-care protocol across patients.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Writer gives a step by step account of the last sessions: how agreements were finally reached, and the actions of the U.S. In the end, the Reagan Administration abandoned the chance of getting most of what it wanted if it could not get it all.

The New Yorker

The Special Agent shared a step by step account of how his online searches led him to Ross Ulbricht.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or explaining a process, use the phrase "step-by-step account" to signal a clear and sequential explanation that readers can easily follow. This emphasizes clarity and thoroughness in your communication.

Common error

While "step-by-step account" is suitable for technical or instructional content, avoid overusing it in creative writing. Opt for more evocative descriptions to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive or formulaic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step-by-step account" primarily functions as a noun phrase modified by a compound adjective. It describes a detailed and sequential explanation or narration of an event or process, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "step-by-step account" serves as a valuable tool for writers aiming to convey clarity and sequential understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While it is most prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, writers should avoid overuse in creative contexts. Alternatives like "detailed explanation" or "chronological narrative" can add nuance depending on the intended emphasis. Using "step-by-step account" effectively ensures that complex information is broken down into manageable steps for easy comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detailed explanation

Focuses on the depth of information rather than the sequence.

sequential explanation

Emphasizes the order of events but may lack the detail of an account.

chronological narrative

Highlights the timeline of events in a story.

gradual unfolding

Implies a process that reveals itself over time.

stepwise procedure

Suggests a method or process with defined stages.

itemized breakdown

Conveys a structured, point-by-point analysis.

blow-by-blow description

Indicates a very detailed, moment-by-moment recounting.

minute-by-minute report

Focuses on the immediacy and precision of a timeline.

stage-by-stage presentation

Highlights the structured phases of a process.

structured walk-through

Implies an instructional, guided explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "step-by-step account" in a sentence?

You can use "step-by-step account" to describe a detailed explanation of a process or event. For example: "The manual provides a "step-by-step account" of how to assemble the product."

What are some alternatives to "step-by-step account"?

Alternatives include "detailed explanation", "sequential explanation", or "chronological narrative" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "step-by-step account" in writing?

It's appropriate when you need to provide a clear, sequential explanation of a process or event, especially in instructional or technical writing.

Is "step by step account" grammatically correct without hyphens?

While understandable, "step-by-step account" with hyphens is generally preferred for clarity and readability, as it functions as a compound adjective modifying "account."