You know the drill.

I've used this expression here and at the small guide site at least a few times, so I'm sure you have an idea of what it means.

This idiom basically says, "You know what to do." We use it to tell people that they've done the activity before and that you expect them to do it. (Drill here means a step-by-step, practiced activity as in a military drill or a fire drill.) 

Keep in mind that this expression tends to be informal and because you're basically telling someone what to do, you shouldn't use it when talking to your manager or supervisor. When you do use this expression, you should also mention what needs to be done to motivate people to start doing it.

like this:

1. Alright, guys! You know the drill. Let's put everything away so we can leave.

2. Alright, everyone! You know the drill! We have to sweep the floor first, then we mop.

3. Ok, class. You know the drill. Turn to the person next to you and practice.

Well, that's all there is to it. You know the drill. You should now try to use the expression as soon as possible.

Good luck!

Joe Yu

thesmallguidesite.com -- Drop by. Learn something. Improve your English