What does your reader most want to know? What is your main message or theme? Decide what information must be included and what can be left out. Then divide your information into main and secondary points.
Develop a structure for your document that will make it easy and enjoyable to use. Chronological order might be the most logical approach for describing procedures - step-by-step instructions, for example - or a sequence of events.
If people already know something about the subject and you are sharing new information, start with the old information, then introduce the new. If it’s a new way of doing something familiar, describe the old procedure briefly before explaining the new steps.
If you are describing something completely new, start with general information about the program objectives or the reason for the policy, then deal with the specifics, such as the application procedures or rules.
To decide on your document’s format, ask yourself if your reading audience has any special needs. Should your document be multilingual? Should it use large print, drawings or photographs? Should it be a pamphlet, booklet or book? Should it be portable or will it stay on a bookshelf for quick reference in an office?
Your answers to these questions will help you keep on track as you write and will ensure that your finished document meets your needs and those of your reader.