In planning and control terminology, to "plan" means to decide in advance on a course of action—setting objectives, allocating resources, and defining steps before execution. Which word correctly completes this definition?

Introduction / Context:
Planning is a fundamental management function. By choosing a course of action ahead of time, organizations reduce uncertainty, coordinate resources, and establish benchmarks for measuring performance. The term succinctly captures this forward-looking commitment to a chosen path.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The activity happens before execution begins.
• It defines objectives, policies, and procedures.
• It informs subsequent control and operational decisions.

Concept / Approach:

To plan is to articulate goals and the means to achieve them. Planning answers "what" and "how" prior to doing, while control monitors execution against the plan and corrects deviations. Decision-making occurs throughout but planning is the stage where those decisions set the path in advance. In project management, planning outputs include schedules, budgets, risk registers, and communication plans.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Classical management theory (planning, organizing, leading, controlling) positions planning explicitly as the advance decision on actions and resource allocation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Control: Happens during/after execution to compare actual vs. plan.

Decision: Generic term; planning is a structured subset focused on the future course.

Master: Not a standard verb in this context.

None: Incorrect because "plan" exactly matches the definition.

Common Pitfalls:

Equating planning with forecasting alone; effective plans also specify actions, responsibilities, and contingencies.

Final Answer:

plan