Which element must an information paper include to adhere to Army writing standards?

An information paper must include a "Bottom Line-Up Front" (BLUF) element to adhere to Army writing standards. This approach ensures that the most critical information is presented at the very beginning of the document, allowing readers to quickly grasp the essential points without wading through unnecessary details. This format aligns with the Army's emphasis on clarity and conciseness in communication, particularly in environments where decision-makers rely on swift and effective information processing.

By placing the main message or conclusion upfront, the BLUF fosters efficient communication, which is vital in military operations where time is of the essence. It serves as a guide for the reader, establishing context and framing any additional information or analysis presented in the body of the paper. This method not only respects the reader's time but also enhances the effectiveness of the information being conveyed.

In this context, the other elements such as Executive Summary, Detailed Analysis, and Long-term Goals, while they may play roles in different types of documents or reports, do not specifically highlight the underlying principle of clearly presenting the most important points at the beginning, which is the essence of the BLUF format. Thus, the inclusion of a BLUF is critical for compliance with the Army's writing standards.