Lost in Translation: Why Clear Instructions Matter More Than You Think
- Craig Zuber
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Have you ever given instructions you thought were crystal clear—and then watched them fail completely? Clear instructions aren’t just useful—they’re absolutely essential. Here's why:
In the hilarious and eye-opening "Exact Instructions Challenge," a dad follows his kids' sandwich-making instructions literally. When they say, "Put peanut butter on the bread," he puts the whole jar right on the loaf! It’s funny, frustrating, and incredibly relatable.
Watch the video below to see exactly what happens:
History is filled with miscommunication disasters. NASA once lost the $125 million Mars Climate Orbiter because one team used inches while another used centimeters—proof that unclear instructions have serious consequences.
To avoid these mishaps, use the simple CLARITY model to give better instructions at work and at home:
C – Clearly explain the situation.
L – Literal instructions combined with common sense.
A – Anticipate misunderstandings.
R – Revise based on feedback.
I – Identify your exact goal.
T – Test understanding by checking in.
Y – Yes to flexibility; adjust when needed.
Give background so people know exactly what you're talking about. Be precise, but avoid overly literal instructions that could cause confusion. Anticipate misunderstandings and clarify those points ahead of time. If you notice confusion or questions, adjust your instructions immediately. Clearly state the outcome you want, leaving no room for guessing. Ask others to summarize your instructions to ensure everyone understands. Stay open-minded and adjust your instructions based on practical feedback.
Here’s how you can put this into action:
Write simple, clear instructions, avoiding unnecessary details.
Clearly state your goal right at the beginning.
Think of common misunderstandings and clear them up immediately.
Have someone else read or try your instructions and note any confusion.
Keep improving your instructions based on their feedback.
Next time you're giving instructions—whether making a sandwich or leading a team—remember the "Exact Instructions Challenge." A bit more clarity today could save your lunch, your money, and even your peace of mind tomorrow.
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