3-28. A rehearsal is a session in which the commander and staff or unit practices expected actions to improve performance during execution. Commanders use rehearsals to ensure staffs and subordinates understand the concept of operations and commander’s intent. Rehearsals also allow leaders to practice synchronizing operations at times and places critical to mission accomplishment. Effective rehearsals imprint a mental picture of the sequence of the operation’s key actions and improve mutual understanding among subordinate and supporting units and leaders. The extent of rehearsals depends on available time. In cases of short-notice requirements, detailed rehearsals may not be possible. In these instances, subordinate leaders backbrief their higher commander on how they intend to accomplish the mission. (See FM 6-0 for a discussion of the different types of rehearsals.) Leaders conduct rehearsals to—