Which term describes an act that is simple, absolute, and definite, requiring the execution of a specific duty?

• A. Optional
• B. Discretionary
• C. Mandatory
• D. Ministerial

Answer: (D)

The main idea is the difference between ministerial acts and acts that involve discretion. When an act is ministerial, the law prescribes the exact duty and leaves no room for judgment. The action is simple, absolute, and definite because once the required conditions are met, the official must perform it in the prescribed way, with no discretion to alter or interpret it.

That’s why ministerial is the best fit here: it describes executing a specific duty as required by law, without choosing among alternatives. For example, a clerk who must issue a license as soon as all applications are complete has no discretion—the duty is to issue, exactly as directed.

Optional and discretionary do not fit because they imply some choice or flexibility, which isn’t present in a ministerial act. Mandatory can denote obligation, but the key distinction here is the lack of discretion and the need to perform a precise duty, which aligns with ministerial.