In the communications model, which step is the final one?

In the communications model, which step is the final one?

• A. A sends a message to B.
• B. B receives that message.
• C. B sends back a relevant message in response to A.
• D. A receives that message; actively listens.

Answer: (D)

Two-way communication relies on a feedback loop. After the initial message is sent and received, the core of the loop is the response that the receiver sends back. The final action in that cycle is for the original sender to receive that response and actively listen to it. This active listening is crucial because it reveals whether the message was understood, what clarifications are needed, and what the next message should be. It completes the cycle by turning the feedback into insight, guiding the sender on how to respond next. While sending, receiving, and replying are all essential steps, the act of receiving and actively listening to the feedback closes this round of communication and tees up the next cycle.

Two-way communication relies on a feedback loop. After the initial message is sent and received, the core of the loop is the response that the receiver sends back. The final action in that cycle is for the original sender to receive that response and actively listen to it. This active listening is crucial because it reveals whether the message was understood, what clarifications are needed, and what the next message should be. It completes the cycle by turning the feedback into insight, guiding the sender on how to respond next. While sending, receiving, and replying are all essential steps, the act of receiving and actively listening to the feedback closes this round of communication and tees up the next cycle.