Which step of the Marine Corps Planning Process (MCPP) is described as the step where you choose the plan and write the orders?

• A. Mission Analysis
• B. COA War Game
• C. COA Development
• D. Orders development

Answer: (D)

This step centers on turning the chosen plan into actionable directives. After mission analysis, generating multiple COAs, wargaming them, and comparing them to select the best option, the next move is to produce the formal guidance that guides execution. Writing the orders translates the approved concept into concrete instructions for units: tasks for each commander, command relationships, coordinating and timing details, and supporting actions. This is what makes the plan executable, ensuring everyone knows what to do, when to do it, and how to synchronize efforts. The earlier steps focus on understanding, creating options, and testing feasibility, while this stage delivers the actual orders for execution.