What is the DESC script used for in difficult conversations?

What is the DESC script used for in difficult conversations?

• A. Describe the situation, Encourage feedback, Specify the desired change, and state Consequences.
• B. Describe the situation, Express concerns, Specify the desired change, and state Consequences.
• C. Describe the issue, Express concerns, Specify the desired change, and state Consequences.
• D. Describe the situation, Express concerns, Implement the change, and document outcomes.

Answer: (D)

DESC is a structured way to give feedback in tough conversations. It guides you to Describe the situation so both sides share a clear, factual picture, then Express concerns about how that situation affects you or the team. After that comes Implement the change, which puts a concrete request and plan in place, followed by Document outcomes to track what happens and provide accountability. This emphasis on follow-through and measurement is what makes it practical: you don’t just talk about the issue, you set a concrete action and then record results so you can revisit progress and adjust if needed. Other options miss or water down this follow-up piece, making the conversation less concrete and harder to improve from.

DESC is a structured way to give feedback in tough conversations. It guides you to Describe the situation so both sides share a clear, factual picture, then Express concerns about how that situation affects you or the team. After that comes Implement the change, which puts a concrete request and plan in place, followed by Document outcomes to track what happens and provide accountability. This emphasis on follow-through and measurement is what makes it practical: you don’t just talk about the issue, you set a concrete action and then record results so you can revisit progress and adjust if needed. Other options miss or water down this follow-up piece, making the conversation less concrete and harder to improve from.