METT-T

METT-T is an analysis tool that, when properly utilized, saves time and energy.

Mission

The leader considers his mission as given to him by his commander. He analyzes it in light of the commander's intent two command levels higher, and derives the essential tasks his unit must perform in order to accomplish the mission.

Enemy

The leader considers the type, size, organization, tactics, and equipment of the enemy he expects to encounter. He identifies their greatest threat to his mission find their greatest vulnerability.

Terrain

The leader considers the effect of terrain and weather on enemy and friendly forces using the guidelines below (OCOKA):

1. Observation and fields of fire. The leader considers ground that allows him observation of the enemy throughout his area of operation. He considers fields of fire in terms of the characteristics of the weapons available to him; for example, maximum effective range, the requirement for grazing fire, and the arming range and time of flight for antiarmor weapons.
2. Cover and concealment. The leader looks for terrain that will protect him from direct and indirect fires (cover) and from aerial and ground observation (concealment).
3. Obstacles. In the attack, the leader considers the effect of restrictive terrain on his ability to maneuver. In the defense, he considers how he will tie in his obstacles to the terrain to disrupt, turn, fix, or block an enemy force and protect his own forces from enemy assault.
4. Key terrain. Key terrain is any locality or area whose seizure or retention affords a marked advantage to either combatant. The leader considers key terrain in his selection of objectives, support positions, and routes in the offense, and on the positioning of his unit in the defense.
5. Avenues of approach. An avenue of approach is an air or ground route of an attacking force of a given size leading to its objective or key terrain in its path. In the offense, the leader identifies the avenue of approach that affords him the greatest protection and places him at the enemy's most vulnerable spot. In the defense, the leader positions his key weapons along the avenue of approach most likely to be used by the enemy.
6. Weather. In considering the effects of weather, the leader is most interested in visibility and trafficability.

Troops available

The leader considers the strength of subordinate units, the characteristics of his weapon systems, and the capabilities of attached elements as he assigns tasks to subordinate units.

Time available

The leader refines his allocation of time based on the tentative plan and any changes to the situation.