Clarification is a coaching skill used to help your client through the fog. Some clients have a tendency to operate from vague or incomplete thoughts and unresolved feelings. It is important that a coach not draw conclusions from unrefined information.

By clarifying, the coach seeks to refine information. The coach will attempt to do so by asking "Is that right?" or by stating "It sounds like..." Clarifying brings the client's image into sharper focus, adds detail, and holds it up to the client for an inspection for confirmation. From this process, coach and client can move past the fog and forward. Clarification differs from articulation; with articulation, the coach speaks on their observations to the client, not for information refinement, but as a mirror – to reflect hard truth.

About the tool: Mastering the art of clarification is essential for deep, transformational coaching, but knowing when and how to zoom in on vague client statements takes practice. This interactive tool walks you through three real-world client scenarios, challenging you to spot the precise phrases that require sharper focus and evaluate effective coaching responses in real time.