How is "persuasion" generally defined?

Persuasion is generally understood as the act of convincing someone to believe or do something. This definition encapsulates the essential elements of persuasion, which involves not just presenting information, but actively influencing thoughts, beliefs, or behaviors. It emphasizes the relational dynamic where one person seeks to affect another's views or actions through reasoning, emotional appeal, or other persuasive techniques.

In contexts like marketing, negotiations, or interpersonal communication, effectively persuading others can involve a variety of strategies that appeal to logic and emotions, illustrating the importance of understanding how to engage an audience and alter perceptions or decisions.

The other options provided don't align with this definition. Confusing someone with information does not convey persuasion, as it lacks intent to influence positively. Writing a report and summarizing a text are distinct processes focused on organization and clarity of information, rather than on the intent to change beliefs or actions.