[Grammar] Use of Definite Article with Plurals - Dilemma

[icanfly]

Hello,

I have had this question for a long time. I don't remember where I picked this rule, but I still believe it's correct. I have seen other people not use the definite article at all when the noun is plural. Examples:

->List steps to create a file using MS Word.
->Identify techniques for creating a project plan in MS Project. (also, Identify various techniques for creating a project plan in MS Project)
-> Identify techniques to create a project plan in MS Project.

I have seen that many people don't use the definite article after the first word in the above examples. But I always add the definite article after the first word. Can anyone tell me if I am correct in adding the article although the words following it are plural? I remember from somewhere that the article is required because the words "steps" or techniques" is qualified by "to", which makes it specific. I have heard a similar rule about "that" qualifying words in such sentences.

Thank you. Expecting an answer to this dilemma. :-|

 

[SoothingDave]

I would use a "the" in those sentences.

Terseness is often found in texts like you have quoted. These appear to be some sort of set of instructions.