Permit me some imprecise definitions: a knowledge resource is a source for learning new knowledge. A knowledge tool is a resource for using performance knowledge. It is a subclass of mindtools (see David Jonassen's work by the same name).

A knowledge tool is related to instruction because it may teach while it supports performance. It is subject to at least two of the three criteria in David Merrill's 2009 First Principles of Instruction,  effective and efficient. The third, engaging, need not be present, as presumably the performance is engaging.

I'd like to suggest that when we construct performance knowledge as a knowledge tool, we include the following:

1. What is the performance context? eg  writing a research paper. 

2. What are the performance criteria?

3. Who could be an ally or mentor in the application?

4. What is the background knowledge required to perform?

5. Are there related tools and knowledge resources?

6. Are other tools required?

7. Is some form of template needed? It may be a spreadsheet, a document template, a conceptual organizer, a mind map, etc.

8. what is the procedure (even if high level)

9. what would extend the performance?

10. what are the common mistakes and how are they fixed?

I welcome discussion of a tool for making tools. Are the above sufficient to communicate the knowledge and reduce the congnitive complexity so the tool can be effectively and efficiently applied?

The discussion that triggered this question is @chalamalla srinivas's question on writing good research papers (https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_Skills_Do_We_Need_to_Write_Good_Research_Papers2). Do tools exist? The discussion answers have criteria, knowledge resources, examples, etc. but could benefit from identifying knowledge tools for various kinds of research papers.