What do people want to be told when asked to do something?

When people are asked to do something, they often want to understand the underlying reason for the request, which is encapsulated in the notion of "why." Providing a rationale helps them see the purpose behind the task, instilling a sense of importance and relevance. Understanding the motivation can lead to greater engagement and willingness to comply.

For example, if someone is asked to complete a project, explaining why the project is essential—such as its role in achieving larger organizational goals—can foster a sense of ownership and commitment from the individual. This clarity on purpose not only empowers the person to take action but can also enhance their performance, as they understand the broader context of their contributions.

In contrast, while context such as "how," "when," or "where" may be important for practical execution, they do not inherently address the motivational aspect that "why" provides. People need to be connected to the reason behind their actions to feel truly invested in completing the task.