Creating New SOPs

Standard Operating Procedures should be clear, actionable, and easy to follow.

Structure

Every SOP should include:

1. Purpose - Why does this procedure exist?
2. Scope - What does this cover?
3. Prerequisites - What’s needed before starting?
4. Steps - Clear, numbered instructions
5. Verification - How to confirm success
6. Troubleshooting - Common issues and solutions

Template

# SOP: [Title]
 
**Purpose:** [Brief description]
**Scope:** [What this covers]
**Owner:** [Responsible person/team]
**Last Updated:** [Date]
 
## Prerequisites
- [ ] Requirement 1
- [ ] Requirement 2
 
## Steps
1. Step one
2. Step two
3. Step three
 
## Verification
- [ ] Verification step 1
- [ ] Verification step 2
 
## Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| Problem 1 | Fix 1 |
| Problem 2 | Fix 2 |

Best Practices

• Use clear, action-oriented language
• Include screenshots when helpful
• Link to related procedures
• Keep procedures up-to-date
• Test procedures regularly

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Related: Writing Guidelines | Template Standards