A method for identifying modes and transitions during plant operation, wherein measured values of process variables are used to evaluate a current state of the process and its sections and subsections. An identified state of the plant is signaled and the plant is monitored for normal execution of any transition, identifying a current task being performed in the process and sending a message to different sections of the plant. Results are displayed on a visual display device and can be sent to other plant computer programs for guidance during the transition. A permanent chronological record of the sequence of events—modes and transitions—of the plant and sections and subsections including the pertinent plant conditions and information is generated for subsequent review and analysis.