A team member read a message but did not confirm the task. Later both sides assumed different expectations. Which step could have prevented this?

Correct answer: Clear confirmation of the task and deadline

Reading a message only shows that it was received, not that its task, standard, or deadline was understood. Asking the receiver to confirm the required action and due time would expose different assumptions before work began. Deleting the message, using harder words, or sending an emoji provides no dependable check of shared meaning.