50 Great Topics for a Process Analysis Essay

If you've ever read an instruction manual or written out a set of directions, then you know what a process analysis essay is. This form of composition is often used in the field of technical writing, where complex systems need to be clearly explained in a logical, orderly fashion. As such, process analyses can be very detailed and sometimes quite long.

Process analysis writing is more than just a set of simple instructions. As a writer, you must go beyond merely identifying the steps involved and examine that process with an analytical eye. This analysis requires expertise—if not firsthand, then from research. Your topic needs to be focused, usually how to do one specific thing, and written in a clear, straightforward tone that readers can follow easily. 

When developing a paragraph, essay, or speech through process analysis, keep these tips in mind:

• Be sure to include all steps and arrange them in chronological order.
• Explain why each step is necessary, and include warnings where appropriate.
• Define any terms with which your readers may not be familiar.
• Offer clear descriptions ​of any tools or materials needed to carry out the process.
• Provide your readers with a way of determining whether the process has been carried out successfully or not.

You shouldn't find it difficult to follow these guidelines if you've chosen a topic that you know quite well. These 50 prompts are meant to help you discover that topic.

1. How to mow your lawn
2. How to win at Texas hold 'em
3. How to lose weight without losing your mind
4. How to find the perfect roommate
5. How to get rid of a roommate—without committing a crime
6. How to succeed in (or flunk out of) college
7. How to pitch a knuckleball
8. How to plan the perfect party
9. How to survive a night of babysitting
10. How to pitch a tent in the rain
11. How to housebreak your dog
12. How to kick a bad habit
13. How to overcome insomnia
14. How to stay sober on a Saturday night
15. How to rent your first apartment
16. How to avoid a nervous breakdown during exams
17. How to enjoy the weekend for under $20
18. How to make the perfect brownies
19. How to keep peace with a spouse or a roommate
20. How to bathe a cat
21. How to complain effectively
22. How to survive a recession
23. How to toilet train a baby
24. How to develop self-confidence
25. How to use Twitter sensibly and effectively
26. How to wash a sweater
27. How to build a great music collection—cheaply and legally
28. How to get along with an instructor without sucking up
29. How to give yourself a haircut
30. How to plan the perfect class schedule