Clarify instructions before you begin

An unclear instruction can lead to unnecessary work. Asking a focused question early helps you understand the task before you start.

Identify the missing detail

Instead of “I don’t understand anything,” ask: “Should the report include this month only, or the whole quarter?” The question gives two possible interpretations.

Other useful questions include “Who is the report for?” and “When do you need the first draft?” Ask about the information you actually need.

Confirm in your own words

“Just to confirm, I’ll include this month’s figures and send a draft by Thursday. Is that right?”

This lets the other person correct a misunderstanding. You can use “So, you would like me to …” in the same way.

Distinguish “by” from “on”

“Send it by Friday” means no later than the stated Friday deadline. “Send it on Friday” specifies Friday as the day to send it. Ask for an exact time if the timing matters.

Your turn

You have been asked to “prepare a summary” but do not know its length. Write one focused question.

See a possible answer

“How long should the summary be?” Or, if you have a reasonable suggestion: “Would a one-page summary be suitable?” Both focus on the missing detail.