Which of the following is NOT a fundamental for an AAR?

• A. Conducted during or immediately after each event
• B. Involves all participants in the discussion
• C. Keeps observers secret
• D. Uses open-ended questions

Answer: (C)

After Action Reviews are designed to promote learning through open, collaborative reflection on a recent activity. The idea is to gather input from those involved, discuss what happened, why it happened, and how to improve, so future performance gets better.

Conducting the debrief during or immediately after the event keeps details fresh and accurate, making it easier to trace what influenced outcomes and to capture practical lessons. Involving all participants brings in diverse perspectives and helps everyone own the improvements that come from the discussion. Using open-ended questions encourages thorough discussion, invites explanations, and uncovers insights that yes/no questions would miss.

Keeping observers secret would undermine this collaborative, transparent process. AARs rely on candor and shared learning, and secrecy would hinder honest feedback and the broad participation essential for meaningful improvement.