walkthrough

Walkthrough is a detailed, step-by-step guide designed to help a user complete a task, solve a problem, or navigate a process by following a linear sequence of actions. It typically describes what to do, where to go, what to select or enter, and what results to expect at each stage.

Walkthroughs appear in several domains, most prominently in video games, but also in software manuals, troubleshooting guides, and educational materials. They are often used to reduce trial and error, increase understanding, and accelerate achievement of a desired outcome.

In video games, a walkthrough reveals how to progress through a story, solve puzzles, locate items, and defeat opponents. They may include maps, diagrams, screenshots, or annotated routes and often indicate alternative paths or optional content. Because they tend to reveal critical moments, many communities provide spoiler warnings.

In software and other tasks, walkthroughs document installation and configuration steps, workflows, test scenarios, or troubleshooting sequences. They may specify prerequisites such as system requirements, version numbers, or prerequisites software, and they may present expected results or verification steps.

Structure and style typically emphasize clarity and reproducibility: enumerated steps, neutral language, precise actions, and note boxes for caveats or common errors. A walkthrough is often distinguished from a guide or a tutorial by its emphasis on reaching a specific end state, though the terms are used loosely in practice.

Limitations include content becoming outdated after updates, and fan-made walkthroughs sometimes containing inaccuracies. Ethical considerations include avoiding spoilers without warning and respecting copyright when reproducing proprietary content. See also: guide, tutorial, strategy guide.