Final answer:
A Notary Signing Agent is to record all notarial acts in a journal as a part of their professional practice, which is often required by the code of conduct for Notaries and can also be mandated by law depending on the jurisdiction.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Notary Signing Agent is responsible for facilitating the closing of real estate transactions and must perform their duties in accordance with the law and professional standards. One aspect of their role involves maintaining a record of all notarial acts conducted at a closing. Recording such acts in a journal is typically seen as good practice to ensure accountability and accuracy in the notarial process. While practices can vary between jurisdictions, the general consensus within the notary community is that maintaining a journal is not only a recommended practice but often a requirement by law or by the code of conduct of notarial professionals. It serves as a tangible record of the notary's actions and can provide critical evidence in the event of a dispute or investigation. Hence, the most appropriate answer in this context is: b. a practice required by the code of conduct.