Which statement best describes the Decision Support Matrix?

• A. A template for after-action reviews
• B. A map showing terrain features
• C. A list of unit strengths and vulnerabilities
• D. A written record of a war-gamed course of action that describes decision points and associated actions at those decision points

Answer: (D)

A Decision Support Matrix is a planning tool that captures the sequence of decisions a commander may face during a war game or operational plan, and links each decision point to the actions that should follow and the information needed to support that decision. It serves as a written record of a war-gamed course of action, detailing what decision points exist and what actions are associated with each point.

This isn’t just about terrain features, unit rosters, or after-action analysis. It’s specifically about mapping when decisions occur and what actions and responses they trigger, so the staff can anticipate options, assess risks, and prepare the necessary information and orders in advance. For example, in a cavalry operation, the matrix would outline a decision point like “enemy breakthrough detected” and specify the corresponding actions (e.g., reorder columns, execute a flanking maneuver) and the information needed to make that decision.