OnlyPolls on Sidechat | When writing instructions, do you actively try to avoid simple negation? For example, “keep the door open” vs “do not close the door” (I realize there are times when negation is necessary)

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OnlyPolls 4w

When writing instructions, do you actively try to avoid simple negation? For example, “keep the door open” vs “do not close the door” (I realize there are times when negation is necessary)

#poll

Yes

Well, i do now

I’ve never considered that before

229 votes

Anonymous 4w

Well "do not" implies there's some consequence, there's a common mistake, or it's just an elaboration upon the previous instructions. Just because it's negative doesn't mean it's bad.

Anonymous 4w

“Leave on” versus “do not turn off”

Anonymous 4w

I avoid double negatives, but not really negation in general, no

Anonymous 4w

I do bc I was taught in lifeguard training that people respond better to being told what to do and are more likely to not listen if you try to tell them what they cannot do

Anonymous

#2 4w

Yeah, I usually use “do not” when if they were to do the thing, there would be some consequence. Especially if it’s a situation where it might usually seem intuitive to do the thing, but you shouldn’t.