What are the two types of AARs?

• A. Formal and Informal
• B. Internal and External
• C. Short and Long
• D. Tactical and Logistics

Answer: (A)

After Action Reviews are categorized by formality: formal and informal. A formal AAR is a structured, planned session, often after a significant exercise, with a designated facilitator, a clear agenda, documented notes, and assigned follow-up actions. It usually produces a written record that feeds into training or SOP improvements. An informal AAR is a quick, casual debrief focused on immediate lessons, typically not scheduled or formally documented, aimed at rapid adjustments and practical takeaways.

Other options mix up aspects that aren’t about how the review is conducted. Internal and external refers to who uses or attends the AAR, not its format. Short and long describes duration, which can vary within either form. Tactical and logistics relate to the type of operation being reviewed, not the type of AAR itself.