What is the correct sequence of the DESC script?

What is the correct sequence of the DESC script?

• A. Describe, Express, Specify, Consequences or next steps
• B. Describe, Express, Specify, Consequences
• C. Express, Describe, Specify, Consequences
• D. Describe, Specify, Express, Consequences

Answer: (A)

The DESC script follows a four-step flow: Describe what you observed in objective terms; Express how it affected you or the team; Specify the concrete change you want to see or action you’re requesting; Consequences (or next steps) spell out what will happen if the change doesn’t occur and what will follow. This order builds a clear, nonjudgmental narrative: first grounding the discussion in observable facts, then conveying the personal impact, then making a specific request, and finally outlining accountability. Starting with description reduces ambiguity, expressing the impact communicates seriousness without blame, specifying the request provides a concrete way forward, and stating consequences or next steps ensures there’s a plan for moving ahead. Other sequences tend to blur these elements, making the conversation less actionable or more confrontational.

The DESC script follows a four-step flow: Describe what you observed in objective terms; Express how it affected you or the team; Specify the concrete change you want to see or action you’re requesting; Consequences (or next steps) spell out what will happen if the change doesn’t occur and what will follow. This order builds a clear, nonjudgmental narrative: first grounding the discussion in observable facts, then conveying the personal impact, then making a specific request, and finally outlining accountability. Starting with description reduces ambiguity, expressing the impact communicates seriousness without blame, specifying the request provides a concrete way forward, and stating consequences or next steps ensures there’s a plan for moving ahead. Other sequences tend to blur these elements, making the conversation less actionable or more confrontational.