Although these formats are written, mortar platoon or section leaders will normally receive their orders verbally from the battalion or company commander and will give them verbally to their units. They will use target lists, operations overlays, terrain models, and execution matrixes to supplement the order.
Warning orders give subordinates advance notice of operations that are to come.
This gives them time to prepare. The order should be brief, but complete. Using the standard five-paragraph field order format helps ensure nothing is omitted. Brief description of the enemy and friendly situations. Attachments and detachments to the unit.