Definition
A task analysis breaks a multi-step skill — handwashing, making a sandwich, a morning routine — into an ordered list of discrete, observable steps. Each step can then be taught, prompted, and measured individually.
The task analysis is the foundation of chaining procedures and is validated by having a fluent person perform the steps or by consulting an expert.
Example
Handwashing task analysis: turn on water, wet hands, apply soap, scrub for 20 seconds, rinse, turn off water, dry hands.