General
Develop distinct CoAs for Enemy and Friendly Forces.
COAs considered first based on Initiative.
All CoAs must pass the Viability Test
New factors or deductions must not be introduced at this Step.
If so, you must go back and review deductions for that Factor to account for any changes.
COA naming conventions
Enemy CoA 1: Most Likely
Enemy CoA 2: Next Most Likely
Optional
Enemy CoA 3: Most Dangerous
Friendly CoA 1: Name or Description
E.G. FCoA1: Left Hook
Intent
A clear and concise statement of what the Commander hopes to achieve
The personal expression of the Commander
It is 'why' an operation is being done
State acceptable risk
May state criteria for success
Is the intent in accordance with the higher commander's intent?
Scheme of Manoeuvre
Outlines the 'what', 'where', 'when', and in general terms 'how' the Commander visualizes the battle unfolding to achieve the desired end state based on a COA.
Describes the phases of the operation
If phased
Describes precisely what the Commander expects to be done
Details the employment of major manoeuvre elements
Details the employment of supporting fires and weapons
Includes the integration of other major elements or systems including ISTAR, engineer and air defence
Main Effort
It is the concentration of forces or means in a particular area where the Commander seeks to bring about a decision
It can be designated as a unit, an effect, or a location
End State
Is the situation to be achieved at the end of the operation and which indicates that the objective has been achieved
Advantages and Disadvantages
Examined logically
Can use a variety of methods to assess
Own Merit: Look at the CoA in terms of its own Advantages/Disadvantages
E.G. results in too much risk in my Rear Area
Supportability: How hard/easy are the various CoAs to support with the troops and resources assigned?
E.G. due to the long lines of communication, this CoA is the most difficult to sustain
Against Criteria: Use criteria from your Planning Guidance (PG) that you've determined or against Principles/Fundamentals
E.G. Offence - Principles could be: Offensive Action, Concentration of Force, Surprise, Security and Flexibility