Which approach is recommended when giving directions to improve compliance?

• A. Provide multiple conflicting instructions
• B. Clear commands with few words
• C. Long, detailed sentences
• D. Yelling for emphasis

Answer: (B)

Clear, concise directions are most effective because they reduce ambiguity and cognitive load, making it easier for the student to understand exactly what to do and start right away. Short, direct commands use concrete verbs and specify the expected action, so the student can act without parsing lengthy sentences or trying to reconcile conflicting ideas. This approach tends to produce quicker, more reliable compliance and reduces frustration for both the student and the teacher. In contrast, conflicting instructions create confusion, long or detailed sentences can overwhelm working memory, and yelling tends to escalate resistance and undermine cooperation.