When looking for information about Army doctrine, it is important to know where to begin. We recommend reading Army Doctrine Publication (ADP) 1-01, Doctrine Primer, to start your doctrine education process. ADP 1-01 guides Army professionals (both Soldiers and Department of the Army Civilians) in their understanding of the entire body of professional knowledge. It addresses what doctrine is, why it is important, and the major ideas that underpin doctrine. The publication also discusses the most important taxonomies (standardized frameworks of terminology) and terms used in the conduct of operations.

Another useful resource is The Doctrine Smartbook. The DSB is a collection of Army doctrine summaries that reflects currently approved doctrine. Part one provides a visual representation of the Army’s capstone and keystone doctrinal hierarchy along with a list of all current ADPs, Field Manuals (FMs), and Army Techniques Publications (ATPs). Part two consists of one-page synopses of each currently approved ADP and FM. Each synopsis contains basic characteristics, fundamentals, terms, and ideas as they are discussed in each publication. Part three contains a list of doctrine points of contact, doctrine resources, and visual references.