How to Write a “Good Enough” SOP in 10 Minutes

“Do or do not. There is no try.”— Yoda, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

If the words “Standard Operating Procedure” make you imagine thick binders gathering dust somewhere...You’re not alone.

But here’s the truth: a good SOP doesn’t need to be formal, complicated, or “perfect.”It just needs to be clear enough that someone else (or future-you) could follow it without guessing.

If you can answer a few quick questions, you can create an SOP today.

Here’s the 10-Minute “Good Enough” SOP method:

1. What’s the task? Keep it simple. (Example: Send a welcome email to new clients.)

2. When does it happen? Tie it to a trigger or timeline. (Example: Within 24 hours of a signed contract.)

3. Who is responsible? Name the role, not just a person. (Example: Admin Assistant or Project Manager.)

4. What are the key steps? Bullet point it. No need for paragraphs. (Example:

• Personalize the welcome email template

• Attach the onboarding guide

• Send through email platform)

5. How do you know it’s done correctly? What’s the final check? (Example: Client receives email confirmation.)

That’s it.

An SOP is just a tiny instruction manual for your future self or anyone helping you. It protects your time, energy, and brainpower.

And remember:

Done > Perfect.

Written > Imagined.

Get it down now. Polish it later if you need to. Your systems and your future self will thank you.