AFH33-337 — The Tongue And Quill

AFH33-337 governs clear, effective Air Force communication in written and spoken formats, including briefings, background papers, and staff packages.

Search AFH33-337

  • Publication number: AFH33-337
  • Title: THE TONGUE AND QUILL
  • Date: 2016-07-27

View AFH33-337 on armypubs.army.mil


AFH33-337 covers communication basics, audience analysis, research, supporting ideas, organization, editing, speaking, listening, meetings, written products, electronic communications, and punctuation. It provides guidance and formatted examples for Air Force written products and material on preparing to write and speak.

Topics covered

  • Air Force communication
  • Audience analysis
  • Research and evidence
  • Briefings and visual aids
  • Listening strategies
  • Written product formats
  • Electronic communications
  • Punctuation

Questions and answers

Why are staff packages returned?

Most executive officers will tell you that failing to answer the question is one of the primary reasons staff packages are returned. (paragraph 2)

How should a document be edited efficiently?

One way to make sure you edit efficiently is to read your document at least three times to allow yourself to really look hard at the problem areas that could botch your product. (paragraph 5)

What should a briefing include when using slides?

Anticipate likely questions and rehearse possible answers. Keep answers short and simple. Listen carefully to questioner and clarify question if needed. (paragraph 1-3)

What should happen when briefing time is limited?

If time is limited (5-15 minutes), you may want to consider NOT using slides. (paragraph 1-3)

What is the difference between hearing and listening?

Hearing occurs when your ears pick up sound waves transmitted by a speaker or some other source. Hearing requires a source of sound and an ear capable of perceiving it. It does not require the conscious decoding of information. (paragraph 1-4)

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