What Should Go in the Comments Block? Comments should be based on verifiable facts. Use input from the member and the member's immediate supervisor(s) as well as the raters' and reporting senior's personal observations.

a. Basic Do's and Don'ts. Do not use underlining, boldface, italics, ** centering **, or other highlighting. Handwritten comments or additions to comments are not allowed, except that reports on E4 and below may be entirely or partially handwritten. Continuation sheets and enclosures are not allowed, except an endorsed statement submitted by the member, a flag endorsement where required, a civilian or foreign letter report, a letter-extension of a Concurrent/Regular report, or a classified letter-supplement. Specifically substantiate all 5.0 grades in the comments. Also substantiate all 1.0 grades, any promotion recommendation of "Significant Problems," and any recommendation against retention, and treat the report as adverse. Any comment suggesting persistent weaknesses, continuing incapacity, or unsuitability for specific assignment or promotion also must be treated as adverse matter, regardless of grades assigned. Do not include classified matter in the report, and do not submit classified supplements unless absolutely necessary. Include required comments and address special interest items as appropriate. Do not include any of the prohibited comments. (The list of required and prohibited comments and special interest items is available in the EVAL Manual.)

b. Style and Content. Space is limited. Avoid preambles and get directly to performance. Do not use puffed-up adjectives. Use direct, factual writing which allows the performance to speak for itself. Bullet style is preferred. Give examples of performance and results. Quantify wherever possible, but don't stress quantity at the expense of quality. Avoid stock comments which make everyone sound alike. Don't rank numerically, e.g., "Number 3 of 7." Comparisons must be in general terms and supported by evidence, e.g., "Best . . . in the command, as demonstrated by . . . " Be consistent with the trait marks. Comment on poor performance or misconduct where necessary, but be judicious. Remember that the report is a permanent official record. Define acronyms. Avoid recommendations. Use the sections of the report that have been set aside for them.


Article Ref:
BUPERSINST 1610.10