The key idea
After discussion, separate agreed items from open questions. Assign each task an owner and a date.
Put it in context
Give each exchange a clear purpose and enough context. Ordered questions and relevant references help the recipient respond accurately. After discussion, record agreements and open issues, retaining written confirmation of details that later steps depend on.
Practical steps
- Record decisions
- Assign tasks
- Check shared understanding
A practical example
If a meeting leaves two tasks for you and one for the institution, list them separately with dates. A suitable summary can reveal misunderstandings early.
Apply this to your own plan
For each step, note what you already know and what needs confirmation. Choose the first item you can act on and define a clear output: documented information, a completed checklist or a focused question for the right organisation. After acting, review what changed in your plan before moving to the next item.
How do I check that both sides understand?
Restate the decision or task in your own words and invite correction. Identify responsibility, timing or pending information so the agreement does not remain vague.
