4-26. An operational approach is a broad description of the mission, operational concepts, tasks, and actions required to accomplish the mission (JP 5-0). The purpose of an operational approach is to provide a framework that relates tactical tasks to the desired end state. It provides a unifying purpose and focus to all operations. It links conceptual planning with detailed planning by providing the main idea that outlines detailed planning and guides the force through preparation and execution. The operational approach enables commanders to begin visualizing and describing possible combinations of actions to reach the desired end state, given the tensions identified in an operational environment and problem frames. The staff uses operational approaches to develop courses of action during detailed planning.