How to Write a Great Overview Sentence for an Ordered List

© Ugur Akinci
An ordered list is one with numbers for each entry.
In technical or business writing it helps a lot if each numbered/ordered list is prefaced by an OVERVIEW sentence.
Such lead sentences prepare the user/reader appropriately for what is to follow.
For example, here is a great overview sentence for the list that follows:

---

Complete all the following steps before getting a scholarship interview appointment:

1. Fill out the application Form 856-A.
2. Go to the Registrar at Hamilton Building.
3. Submit Form 856-A with your application fee.
4. Call the International House for a scholarship interview appointment.

---

Here below is how NOT write an overview sentence for the same ordered list:

---

Fill out the application Form 856-A.

1. Go to the Registrar at Hamilton Building.
2. Submit Form 856-A with your application fee.
3. Call the International House for a scholarship interview appointment.

---

Why this is not a good overview? Because the overview sentence is nothing more than the first item of the ordered list; it should be a part of the numbered list as the first step.
NOTE: It would help if you make it very clear in your overview whether ALL or some of the steps  apply or should be performed.
EXERCISE:
Write an appropriate overview sentence for the following ordered list:
OVERVIEW SENTENCE: ……………………………….

1. Pull the car immediately to a curb or safe spot.
2. Find your Car Service Club card.
3. Call Car Service Club and give them your location and membership number.
4. Wait for the tow truck to arrive.

(Photo courtesy of Alexander Solodukhin at Unsplash-dot-com)