Which of the following is the most important element for researchers to obtain informed consent for a study?

a.)
Explaining the research study to potential participants to ensure that they understand what they are agreeing to do

b.)
Having the study hypothesis and methodology peer-reviewed and approved before beginning experiments

c.)
Obtaining permissions for all material from other studies used in the study and providing citations for the original studies

d.)
Ensuring that participants sign a waiver agreeing to not hold the researchers liable for potential negative outcomes