The Significance Of The METT-TC Model

According to the Foundation for Critical Thinking (n.d.) the single most significant variable in determining the quality of what you learn in college, and I believe in life and as an Army leader, is your thinking. The ability to think on a larger scale and understand the why is one of the most difficult things for individuals to understand, but yet one of the simplest things to do, when it is done correctly. It often takes a deep breath and some situational awareness to make the process work. A critical thinker aspires to become one that thinks open-mindedly and communicates effectively with others in figuring out complex problems. As an Army leader, we are charged with winning in a complex world and that is impossible to do unless you have …show more content…
The METT-TC model has additional and multiple levels within the enemy, terrain and weather layers that add multiple complexities to the model. If any of the these are overlooked, it could have a negative impact on the operational environment. For example, when analyzing the enemy situation, the leader must take into consideration both the enemy’s offensive and defensive capabilities and how that will that will create an advantage or disadvantage by a piece of terrain. This clearly demonstrates the leader’s ability to think in layers and consider cause and effects given several known variables as well as some that may be unknown. These facts and assumptions are gathered through what is seen on the ground combined with the intelligence process that was done during the mission planning phase. A Sergeant First Class must inherently understand this process to be an effective leader and critical thinker in today’s Army. Once the leader understands the operational environment, he or she must possess the ability to effectively communicate that plan to both superiors and subordinates as to ensure mission