What practice helps prevent misunderstandings in discussions?

Written communication is a practice that significantly reduces misunderstandings in discussions due to its clarity and permanence. When information is documented in writing, it creates a tangible record that all parties can refer back to. This minimizes ambiguity since the messages are conveyed in a structured format, thus ensuring that everyone's expectations and intentions are clearly articulated.

Additionally, written communication allows for thoughtful reflection before sharing information. Parties can carefully choose their words, leading to precise language that conveys the intended meaning without the nuances that sometimes accompany verbal communication. In contrast, verbal agreements, informal meetings, and casual conversations can be more prone to misinterpretation and may lack the detailed context that written records provide, making it easier to forget or misrepresent what was discussed.