What is the formula for writing a clear decision?

Verb + Subject + Context. Start with an action word, name the specific thing being decided, and add constraints or timeline. Test it by saying 'I/We need to...' before the title — if it sounds natural, it's clear and actionable.

What verbs should I use when writing decisions?

Use strong action verbs: Choose (selecting between options), Approve (formal sign-off), Confirm (verifying facts or ownership), Assign (defining responsibility), Set (establishing timelines or guardrails), Align on (achieving agreement), Authorize (granting permission or budget), Adopt (agreeing to use a method or tool), Prioritize (ordering tasks or initiatives), Schedule (determining timing), Define (clarifying scope or metrics), Finalize (closing open decisions), Proceed (moving forward after approval), Revisit (re-evaluating a previous choice), Select (choosing tools or partners), Clarify (removing ambiguity), Establish (setting new policy or standards), Evaluate (reviewing options before final call).

When should I use 'Choose' vs 'Approve' in a decision?

Use 'Choose' when selecting between clear options or vendors. Use 'Approve' when giving formal go-ahead or sign-off on something already proposed.

When should I use 'Confirm' vs 'Assign' in a decision?

Use 'Confirm' when verifying facts, timing, or ownership that's already tentatively in place. Use 'Assign' when defining ownership or responsibility for the first time.

When should I use 'Set' vs 'Define' in a decision?

Use 'Set' when establishing timelines, goals, or guardrails with specific values. Use 'Define' when clarifying roles, scope, or success metrics that need description rather than just a number.

When should I use 'Align on' in a decision?

Use 'Align on' when achieving agreement among multiple stakeholders is the goal — typically for priorities, direction, or strategy where buy-in matters as much as the outcome.

What is the 'I/We need to' test for decisions?

Say 'I/We need to...' before your decision title. If it sounds natural, it's clear and actionable. For example, 'We need to choose vendor for billing migration' sounds natural. 'We need to billing vendor' does not.

What's the difference between a weak and strong decision title?

Weak: 'Pricing' — this is a topic, not a decision. Strong: 'Choose pricing model for Q2 product launch' — this is specific and actionable. Weak: 'Hire PM?' — vague question. Strong: 'Assign delivery staffing plan before end of March 2026' — clear action with deadline.

What should I include in the context field?

Add 1-3 short lines to clarify why the decision matters, what options exist, and any constraints. Example: 'System stable, marketing launch fixed for Friday 2pm ET. Resources are all set and communication plan is ready.'

What is the clarity checklist for decisions?

Before submitting, verify: Starts with a verb, names a specific subject, includes time/scope/constraint, passes the 'We need to...' test, and contains one clear decision per line.

How to Write Clear, Actionable Decisions

What's Next?

Decision Guidelines:

Decision Writing Guide — The Verb + Subject + Context formula for decisions that stick.
Decision Templates by Use Case — Starting points for hiring, budget, vendor, and product decisions.
Common Decision Writing Mistakes - The patterns that turn momentum into confusion.

Need help? Email support@decisiondesk.io — we respond within 24 hours.

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