Glyph instructions are formed which are understandable by a person following the instructions, irrespective of which written language is understood by the person. The glyph instructions follow defined grammar and syntax rules. A plurality of action glyphs are used to represent a plurality of defined actions capable of being undertaken by the person following the instructions. A plurality of material glyphs are defined to represent a plurality of materials which are includable as part of the instruction, and a plurality of instrumentation glyphs are defined to represent a plurality of instruments which may be included in the instructions. Selected ones of the action glyphs, material glyphs and instrumentation glyphs are arranged in relationship to each other in accordance with the predetermined grammar and syntax to form specific instructions understandable by the person following the instruction, irrespective of the written language which is understood by the person.