ready

quick, prompt, ready, apt mean able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability. quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

• • quick reflexes
• • a keen quick mind

prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

• • prompt emergency medical care

ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

• • backed by a pair of ready assistants

apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

• • an apt student
• • her answer was apt and to the point