In addition to making the message as short as possible, what is the advantage to using a direct format for bad news messages?

A) The direct format increases understanding.
B) The direct format increases acceptance.
C) The direct format clearly identifies the bad news so fewer assumptions are made.
D) The direct format saves the reader time.
E) The direct format saves the writer time.

Answer: D
Explanation: D) Depending on the circumstances, the message may also offer alternatives or a plan of action to fix the situation under discussion. Stating the bad news at the beginning can have two advantages: (1) It makes a shorter message possible, and (2) it allows the audience to reach the main idea of the message in less time.