Communication Problems

Correct answer: A. By when the action should be completed

A deadline tells the receiver when the requested action must be completed. The question states that the action, purpose, and addressee are already clear, so those cannot be the missing elements. Therefore A is correct. Without a deadline, the receiver may delay the task or make different assumptions about urgency.

Correct answer: A. What preparation is required?

The instruction to “prepare” is incomplete because it does not identify the required tasks, materials, or level of preparation. Asking what preparation is required directly targets this missing information and allows the sender to clarify the instruction. A is correct. The other questions concern colour, a door, or paper thickness and do not resolve the communication gap.

Correct answer: A. Members may remember the decision differently

An oral decision may be remembered differently by different members, especially when it includes several details, responsibilities, or deadlines. Writing and sharing the decision creates a common record that people can check later. Therefore A is correct. The absence of a record does not make communication clearer, eliminate written communication, or automatically improve privacy.

Correct answer: A. It reduces the chance of misunderstanding and giving an incorrect answer.

Clarifying the meaning of a question before answering helps the student focus on what is actually being asked. It reduces misunderstanding and makes an accurate response more likely. A is correct. A brief clarification need not waste time; it does not insult the questioner or prevent an answer. Instead, it supports careful comprehension and effective communication.

Correct answer: A. Honest and responsible communication

The speaker openly acknowledges the limit of present knowledge instead of inventing an answer. Promising to check and return with accurate information shows responsibility and protects the listener from misinformation. A is correct. The statement is not a lie, aggression, or a privacy breach; it is a transparent and professional response that can build trust.

Correct answer: A. Openness and willingness to accept feedback

The speaker recognises that their interpretation may be incomplete and invites the other person to correct it. This shows intellectual openness, humility, and readiness to receive feedback. A is correct. The request is not vague because its purpose is clear, and it does not show ego or aggression. It supports mutual understanding and reduces the chance of prolonged misunderstanding.

Correct answer: A. Can you give one example?

An example converts an abstract or complex instruction into a concrete model, helping students understand what the expected result or process looks like. Asking for one example directly addresses the difficulty. A is correct. The other questions concern colour, a bell, or a window and provide no clarification about how to follow the instruction.