Instructional strategy is defined in abstract terms independent of instructional theories, philosophies, or standard formulas. Strategies share dimensions in common that allow instructional designers to communicate about them in theory-agnostic terms. These dimensions supply a common reference for comparing design viewpoints and discussing their relative strengths and applicability. This definition simplifies the design of strategies. It provides a stable framework for the instructional designer, regardless of loyalty to a philosophy or theory. Examples show how theories about strategy compare with regard to the framework's dimensions.