What technique is often used to visualize courses of action?

The technique of using sketches and overlays is particularly effective for visualizing courses of action in the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) because it allows planners to depict complex scenarios in a clear and spatial manner. Sketches can illustrate terrain features, troop movements, and the relationships between various elements of the plan. Overlays can be used to superimpose new information or different courses of action onto a map, enabling decision-makers to compare and contrast various strategies visually. This method is crucial for understanding the ground environment and the interactions between forces, making it easier to communicate plans and intentions to subordinates and other stakeholders.

In contrast, while graphs and charts can present data effectively, they may not adequately convey spatial relationships necessary for military operations. PowerPoint presentations can summarize information but might lack the detailed illustrations that sketches and overlays provide. Written reports tend to be more descriptive and less visual, which may not engage the audience's visual comprehension of potential scenarios. Thus, sketches and overlays stand out as the most suitable technique for visualizing courses of action in military planning.