A BATNA is an alternative you are willing to execute if negotiations fail.

• A. The initial proposal of the other party
• B. A suggestion for brainstorming
• C. A compromise that all parties accept
• D. An alternative that you are willing and able to execute if negotiations fail

Answer: (D)

BATNA stands for the best alternative to a negotiated agreement. It is the option you would pursue if talks fail, and it must be something you are both willing and able to carry out. This combination is crucial: it isn’t just a vague backup, it’s a concrete plan you can act on if the current negotiation doesn’t produce a satisfactory deal. Knowing your BATNA gives you real leverage and prevents you from accepting a deal that’s worse than your fallback.

The other ideas described don’t fit because they aren’t your personal, actionable fallback. The initial proposal from the other party is just their starting point, not your own alternative. A brainstorming suggestion is about generating ideas, not a ready-to-act option if negotiations break down. A compromise that everyone accepts is valuable, but it isn’t necessarily your personal fallback if no agreement is reached.

A practical example helps: if you’re negotiating a job offer, your BATNA could be another job offer or returning to your current job with a plan to continue searching. You’d choose that route only if the present negotiation doesn’t meet your minimum needs.