Re: Computer instruction in the present tense

[Bonni Graham <bonnig -at- IX -dot- NETCOM -dot- COM>]

Peggy wrote:

> I have read that such instruction should be written in the
> PRESENT tense. What do you out there in the trenches do, and
> why?

I use present tense unless the action is not immediate.

For example:

When you press the Framis button, the system creates a new framis.

(happens immediately upon button pressing).

When you press the Framis button, the system will create a new framis
after you exit the screen.

(happens later; you may be able to do other things before the framis is
created)

Hope that helps!

Bonni Graham
Manual Labour