Which sequence correctly lists the four steps of the Army Operations Process?

Which sequence correctly lists the four steps of the Army Operations Process?

• A. Plan, Prepare, Execute, Assess
• B. Plan, Execute, Prepare, Assess
• C. Prepare, Plan, Execute, Assess
• D. Plan, Assess, Prepare, Execute

Answer: (A)

The sequence tested reflects the four-step flow of the Army Operations Process: planning sets the direction, preparing aligns resources, executing carries out the plan, and assessing evaluates outcomes to inform the next cycle. You start by planning to define the mission, intent, and concept of operations, so everyone knows what success looks like and how to achieve it. Then comes preparation, where you marshal and synchronize people, equipment, and information to support that plan. Execution follows, turning plans into action and tasks into results. Finally, assessment measures performance and outcomes, identifies gaps, and feeds back into planning to adjust or improve the approach. If you were to switch the order, you’d be attempting to act without a clear plan, or you’d prepare after already executing, which undermines coordination and purpose. That’s why the correct sequence is Plan, Prepare, Execute, Assess.

The sequence tested reflects the four-step flow of the Army Operations Process: planning sets the direction, preparing aligns resources, executing carries out the plan, and assessing evaluates outcomes to inform the next cycle. You start by planning to define the mission, intent, and concept of operations, so everyone knows what success looks like and how to achieve it. Then comes preparation, where you marshal and synchronize people, equipment, and information to support that plan. Execution follows, turning plans into action and tasks into results. Finally, assessment measures performance and outcomes, identifies gaps, and feeds back into planning to adjust or improve the approach.

If you were to switch the order, you’d be attempting to act without a clear plan, or you’d prepare after already executing, which undermines coordination and purpose. That’s why the correct sequence is Plan, Prepare, Execute, Assess.