Which statement best completes: The orders in a Decentralized Command should be

• A. Verbose; detailed; technical
• B. Ambiguous; broad; open-ended
• C. Written; formal; structured
• D. Clear; simple; concise

Answer: (D)

In decentralized command, orders should be clear, simple, and concise. This keeps the focus on the intended end state and empowers subordinates to act with initiative rather than waiting for step-by-step instructions. Clear directions reduce misunderstanding about what needs to be achieved, while simplicity minimizes cognitive load and speeds decision-making. Being concise avoids unnecessary details that can slow action or drown out the core objective. Verbose, ambiguous, or overly broad instructions tend to slow execution, invite multiple interpretations, and erode unity of effort. While formal written documents can be useful in some contexts, the practical need in decentralized command is messages that are easy to grasp and quick to act on.