The types of handouts and manuals that are used in technology training vary. Some describe procedures in a narrative way without graphics; some employ step-by-step instructions with screen captures. According to Thirlway (1994), a training manual should be like a tutor that permits a student to learn at his own pace and gives him confidence for further learning. Such a manual should consist of a series of lessons so that learners can build knowledge and skill lesson by lesson. Therefore, step-by-step instruction is recommended, and information overload is cautioned against. When such a manual is used in training along with hands-on activities and an individual learning approach to each student, participants will tend not only to learn knowledge and skill but also to gain confidence in technology use. In this case study, the essential elements for a step-by-step manual for training in Microsoft PowerPoint 2000 were incorporated into such a manual for tryout. The contents were organized as a series of lessons, ranging from creating a simple text-only slide to adding visual material and functions, such as presentation effects, to a slide. Instruction in the manual was written in a step-by-step manner and the text was modularized. Step-by-step screen captures accompanied the instruction, reflecting the constantly changing computer screen as the learner interacted with the computer. Twenty-six adult learners participated in two days of training that consisted of a three-hour session each morning and each afternoon. The majority of learners were public school teachers and school administrative staff. All possessed basic computer knowledge and word processing skills but none had used PowerPoint before. Progress was monitored and assessed using pre-and post-tests, pre-and post-questionnaires, unit quizzes and journals in the electronic portfolio.These qualitative data demonstrate that a step-by-step visual manual as well as a hands-on individual approach in training can support learners in gaining confidence for technology use.(Contains 5 figures and 12 references.)