Intellect (NCOER/OER)

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Intellect draws on the mental tendencies and resources that shape conceptual abilities applied to one’s duties and responsibilities. Conceptual abilities enable effective problem solving and sound judgment before implementing concepts and plans. They help one think creatively and reason analytically, critically, ethically, and with cultural sensitivity to consider unintended as well as intended consequences, helping leaders anticipate the second- and third-order effects of their actions. The conceptual components affecting an Army leader’s intellect include mental agility, sound judgment, innovation, interpersonal tact, and expertise.

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Mental agility: a flexibility of mind, an ability to anticipate or adapt to uncertain or changing situations. Agility enables thinking through second- and third-order effects when current decisions or actions are not producing the desired results.

Sound judgment: the capacity to assess situations shrewdly and to draw rational conclusions. Consistent good judgment enables leaders to form sound opinions and make reliable estimates and sensible decisions. Good judgment includes the ability to assess subordinates, peers, and the enemy for strengths and weaknesses to create appropriate solutions and action.

Innovation: the ability to introduce something new when needed or as opportunities exist. Being innovative includes creativity in producing original and worthwhile ideas. Innovative leaders tend to be inquisitive and good problem solvers. Innovative leaders prevent complacency by finding new ways to challenge subordinates with forward-looking approaches and ideas by relying on intuition, experience, knowledge, and input from subordinates.

Interpersonal tact: interacting with others depends on knowing what others perceive. It relies on accepting the character, reactions, and motives of oneself and others. Interpersonal tact combines these skills, along with recognizing diversity and displaying self-control, balance, and stability in situations.

Expertise: the special knowledge and skill developed from experience, training, and education. Domain knowledge is what leaders know about application areas used in their duties and positions. Leaders create and use knowledge in at least four domains. Tactical knowledge relates to accomplishing a designated objective through military means. Technical knowledge consists of the specialized information associated with a particular function or system. Joint knowledge is an understanding of joint organizations, their procedures, and roles in national defense. Cultural and geopolitical knowledge is awareness of cultural, geographic, and political differences and sensitivities.

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Reference: ADP 6–22 and ADRP 6–22

Source: (DA PAM 623-3 NCOER, page 24)