User guide

A document that explains how to use a product, service, system, or application, typically through instructions, reference information, and examples.

Instructional design: The practice of designing learning experiences and materials around defined goals and learners. It provides the methods for turning product knowledge into teachable guidance.
Software documentation: Written material that explains software features, operation, installation, and development. Software user guides explain interface behavior, workflows, and configuration.
Task analysis: A method for identifying the steps, decisions, and knowledge involved in completing a task. It reveals which actions and decision points a guide must explain.
Tutorial: A lesson that teaches a skill or process through guided practice and explanation. A tutorial leads through learning, while a guide is often organized for task lookup.
Information architecture: The organization and labeling of information to make it findable and understandable. A guide depends on coherent organization so users can locate the help they need.
User manual: A document that gives instructions and reference information for operating a product. This closely related format often serves as the printed or formal version of a user guide.
Usability testing: Evaluation of a product by observing representative users attempting realistic tasks. Testing guide-based tasks exposes unclear instructions and missing information.
FAQ: A collection of frequently asked questions and their answers about a topic or product. An FAQ organizes help around recurring questions rather than a systematic account of use.
Technical writing: Writing that communicates specialized information clearly for practical use. User guides are a common form of technical writing.
Quick start guide: A concise guide covering the first steps needed to begin using a product. It distills a full guide into setup and first-use essentials.

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