Which sequence outlines the basic steps of the Planning process in Extreme Ownership?

• A. Quick assumptions, writing a plan, and executing without rehearsal.
• B. Randomly selecting a plan and implementing without analysis.
• C. Evaluating performance after execution to inform future plans.
• D. Mission analysis, identifying critical tasks and risks, developing options, selecting a plan, rehearsing, and communicating the plan.

Answer: (D)

Planning in Extreme Ownership begins with a clear understanding of the mission and the environment. It requires mission analysis to determine what must be done, identify critical tasks and risks, and then develop multiple ways to accomplish the mission. From those options, a plan is chosen, the team rehearses the steps to ensure everyone knows their roles, and the plan is communicated clearly so execution is synchronized. This sequence reduces uncertainty, aligns efforts, and sets the conditions for successful results.

The best choice includes all these elements: mission analysis, identifying critical tasks and risks, developing options, selecting a plan, rehearsing, and communicating the plan.

Other options push forward without proper analysis, skip rehearsal, or base action on post-execution evaluation, which undermines disciplined planning and ownership.