Vague Intentions

Persuade, Convince,Realize and Understand are unspecific and unhelpful intentions. When an actor tells me that they are using one of these intentions, I instantly know what's wrong with their audition.

Think about it. How do you know if you persuaded me? How do you know you convinced me? Because you made me feel or do something.

For example, if I'm trying to persuade you to buy my car, I want you to make a decision and give me money. Now that gives me something specific to fight for and listen for. And, I know I got my intention when you give me that money. This gives you, the actor, something tangible to do in the scene.

Next time you ask yourself, "What's my intention?" and to persuade, to convince, to realize, or to understand come to mind, ask yourself, "What do I need them to feel or do, to know that I have persuaded or made them understand."