What is an essential skill to develop when receiving combat orders?

When receiving combat orders, shorthand writing skills are essential because they enable a soldier to quickly and accurately capture critical information. The nature of combat operations often calls for immediate comprehension and retention of directives, and shorthand allows for the rapid documentation of orders without losing important details. This skill is invaluable in high-pressure situations where time and clarity are of the essence, ensuring that the orders are understood and can be communicated effectively to others.

While verbal communication skills, leadership strategies, and strategic planning skills are also important in a broader military context, they do not address the immediate need for quick and efficient note-taking during the receipt of combat orders. Effective shorthand writing directly supports the operational efficiency required in combat scenarios.