Tool

Effect

Regulation (*)

Binding

Directive (*)

Binding (generally)

Decision

Binding; important for the application of Community law; binding, in its entirety, the State, or the person, to whom addressed; reasoned & based on a provision in the foundation treaties

Recommendation & Opinion

Advisory; not an order; not legally binding; foundation for a future action

Resolution

Not legally binding (from EU Parliament)

Council of the Ministers—CM

It does not propose, but asks Commission. The Commission generates the relevant legislation to enforce the treaties & ensure the decisions of the institutions