Which method uses the four D's: Do, Defer, Delegate, or Delete?

Which method uses the four D's: Do, Defer, Delegate, or Delete?

• A. Must-do
• B. 4-D Method
• C. Eisenhower Method
• D. Ivy Lee Method

Answer: (B)

The four D's—Do, Defer, Delegate, or Delete—are a quick way to decide what to do with each task. This approach is called the 4-D Method, which is why that option is the best match: it explicitly names the four actions you apply to tasks to determine their fate. Other options point to different systems—Eisenhower uses a urgency-importance grid, Ivy Lee emphasizes a short top-priority list, and “Must-do” isn’t a formal method. So the 4-D Method is the one that uses these four actions. When you tackle a task, ask: Can I do it right now and it’s important? If yes, Do it. If it’s not urgent but matters, Defer it to a later time. If someone else can handle it, Delegate it. If it isn’t needed at all, Delete it. This helps you focus on what truly matters and frees up time for high-impact work.

The four D's—Do, Defer, Delegate, or Delete—are a quick way to decide what to do with each task. This approach is called the 4-D Method, which is why that option is the best match: it explicitly names the four actions you apply to tasks to determine their fate. Other options point to different systems—Eisenhower uses a urgency-importance grid, Ivy Lee emphasizes a short top-priority list, and “Must-do” isn’t a formal method. So the 4-D Method is the one that uses these four actions. When you tackle a task, ask: Can I do it right now and it’s important? If yes, Do it. If it’s not urgent but matters, Defer it to a later time. If someone else can handle it, Delegate it. If it isn’t needed at all, Delete it. This helps you focus on what truly matters and frees up time for high-impact work.