In the MDMP, which step corresponds to COA Development?

• A. Step 2
• B. Step 3
• C. Step 4
• D. Step 1

Answer: (B)

COA Development is the step that follows mission analysis, when you turn the findings and problem framing into concrete options. It focuses on generating several viable and distinct courses of action that could accomplish the mission, not on judging them yet. In this phase you sketch out each option's concept of operations, the main effort, initial tasks, and rough resource needs, all while ensuring they are feasible, acceptable, and aligned with the commander’s intent. The idea is to produce a set of alternatives that can later be tested, compared, and refined. The subsequent step is COA analysis (war gaming and testing), which evaluates these options for risks and feasibility.