In the Army's MDMP, which step is typically led by a WOIC?

• A. Receipt of Mission
• B. Mission Analysis
• C. COA Analysis
• D. COA Development

Answer: (D)

COA Development is the phase where you take the guidance from mission analysis and craft multiple, detailed Courses of Action that could accomplish the mission. This step focuses on turning intent into concrete, executable options—defining who does what, where, with what resources, and how the operation would unfold. A WOIC is well suited to lead this part because it requires translating guidance into workable, testable plans and coordinating across all staff functions to ensure the options are coherent, feasible, and aligned with the commander's intent. The WOIC’s planning experience, facilitation skills, and ability to integrate inputs from intelligence, operations, logistics, and other staff areas help produce solid COAs that can be subjected to war gaming and comparison in the following steps.