Ever had a board exchange go sideways because you answered the question asked, not the one intended? This lesson gives you an executive-grade, numbers-first sequence and precise verification questions so you can align scope, metric, and decision—on the spot—under pressure. You’ll get clear frameworks, UK/US phrasing templates, sharp examples, and drills with exercises to hardwire the pattern. Finish able to slow the tempo, confirm intent, answer cleanly, and close with a decision-ready reconfirmation.