Instructions vs. Explanations — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 27, 2023
Instructions provide guidance on how to perform a task, while explanations offer reasons or clarifications about a concept or event.
Difference Between Instructions and Explanations
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Instructions give a step-by-step guide on how to do something, ensuring a desired outcome is achieved. On the other hand, explanations offer a detailed insight into a subject, clarifying its nature or reasoning.
In many instances, instructions are followed when one needs to achieve a specific goal or complete a task. Conversely, explanations are sought when one is looking to understand the why or how behind a particular subject or phenomenon.
When assembling a piece of furniture, for instance, you would refer to instructions to ensure each part fits correctly. However, if you were curious about the history of furniture design, you would seek explanations to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Instructions typically have a directive nature, urging the reader or listener to act in a certain way. In contrast, explanations are more informative, aiming to increase the reader or listener's knowledge or understanding without necessarily prompting immediate action.
Both instructions and explanations are essential in different contexts. While instructions are vital for tasks like cooking or machinery operation, explanations play a crucial role in education, debate, and comprehension.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
Directive
Informative
Nature
Step-by-step
Clarification
Usage
Task completion
Understanding concepts
Outcome
Achieving a goal
Gaining knowledge
Focus
How to do
Why or how it is
Compare with Definitions
Instructions
Guidelines for completing a task.
The instructions for the cake required precise measurements.
Explanations
Clarifications of a concept or idea.
Her explanations about the theory were enlightening.
Instructions
Ordered details for performing actions.
The game came with instructions for all players.
Explanations
Descriptions that enhance understanding.
His explanations about the event cleared all confusion.
Instructions
Procedures to ensure correct usage.
The device had clear instructions on the back.
Explanations
Insights into the workings of a system.
The manual had explanations about the machine's functions.
Instructions
Directive steps to achieve an outcome.
He followed the instructions to assemble the desk.
Explanations
Reasons given for an occurrence.
The scientist offered explanations for the unusual weather patterns.
Instructions
The act, practice, or profession of instructing
Math instruction.
Explanations
Elaborations on a particular topic.
The book provided detailed explanations of each phenomenon.
Instructions
Imparted knowledge
We sought further instruction in a more advanced class.
Explanations
The act or process of explaining
Launched into a detailed explanation.
Instructions
An imparted or acquired item of knowledge
The judge gave the jury an instruction in how the law defines an accomplice.
Explanations
Something that explains
That was supposedly the explanation for their misdeeds.
Instructions
Often instructions An authoritative direction to be obeyed; an order
Had instructions to be home by midnight.
Explanations
A mutual clarification of misunderstandings; a reconciliation.
Instructions
Instructions Detailed directions about how to do something
Read the instructions for assembly.
Explanations
Plural of explanation
Instructions
(Computers) A sequence of bits that tells a central processing unit to perform a particular operation and can contain data to be used in the operation.
Instructions
Plural of instruction
Instructions
A manual usually accompanying a technical device and explaining how to install or operate it
Instructions
Directions to assist task execution.
Without the right instructions, the software was hard to install.
Common Curiosities
Can an instruction include an explanation?
Yes, instructions can contain explanations to clarify steps or reasons.
Can I have instructions without explanations?
Yes, instructions can stand alone without providing reasons or background.
Which is more directive, instructions or explanations?
Instructions are more directive, guiding specific actions or tasks.
In what context are instructions most commonly found?
Instructions are common in manuals, recipes, and guides for task completion.
Why are instructions essential?
Instructions ensure tasks are completed correctly and desired outcomes are achieved.
Are all explanations factual?
No, explanations can be based on opinions, beliefs, or interpretations.
Are explanations subjective?
Explanations can be both objective (factual) and subjective (based on personal views).
Are instructions the same as explanations?
No, instructions guide on "how to do" while explanations clarify "why" or "how" something is.
Why are explanations important?
Explanations enhance understanding and provide reasons or clarifications about concepts or events.
Do explanations always answer the question "why"?
Primarily yes, but explanations can also address the "how" of a subject.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
