Guide
Learn how to write a helpful guide with an inviting introduction, organised sections and practical tips for the reader.
Watch the lesson
Watch the matching Path to Selective lesson when available, then review the structure before you practise.
Purpose, audience and tone
Purpose
Help the reader understand a place, activity or process so they can follow it confidently.
Typical audience
Visitors, beginners or anyone needing clear guidance on a topic.
Tone
clear, friendly, informative
Core structure
Follow these steps so your response matches the expected Guide format.
Welcoming introduction
Explain what the guide covers and who it is for.
Organised sections
Break the information into labelled parts the reader can scan.
Practical tips
Include useful advice that helps the reader succeed.
Warnings or reminders
Mention anything important the reader should watch out for.
Helpful ending
Finish with encouragement or a quick summary of key points.
Exam time plan
A clear 30-minute plan for exam conditions.
Example opening or extract
Sample opening
Key features
- A clear purpose in the introduction
- Logical sections with headings
- Helpful tips written for the reader
- Precise, easy-to-follow language
- A useful conclusion
Common mistakes
- Dumping information with no order
- Assuming the reader already knows everything
- Leaving out practical tips
- Using vague instructions such as “do it carefully” with no detail
Planning checklist
- What is this guide helping the reader do?
- How will I organise the sections?
- What tips will be most useful?
- What should the reader avoid?
- How will I end helpfully?
Practice options
Apply what you learned in a timed exam using the Path to Selective exam experience.
Timed Exam Practice
Complete the response under realistic 30-minute NSW Selective exam conditions.
Start 30-Minute ExamFinal editing checklist
- Can a beginner follow this guide?
- Are the sections clearly labelled?
- Have I included practical tips?
- Is the language clear and precise?
Related formats
Continue with a nearby format to strengthen transferable skills.