General Documentation Terms

What Is a User Manual?

A user manual is a comprehensive document that provides instructions on how to use a product or system.

A user manual is a comprehensive document that provides instructions on how to use a product or system. It typically includes setup instructions, feature explanations, troubleshooting guides, and FAQs, written for the end user rather than the developer.

Effective user manuals are organized around the tasks people actually want to accomplish and lean heavily on screenshots and numbered steps. See our step-by-step guide for creating a user manual.

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Frequently asked questions

What should a user manual include?
A good user manual includes an introduction, setup or installation steps, feature walkthroughs with screenshots, troubleshooting tips, and a FAQ or glossary.

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