How many total copies should a command prepare for an E7-E9 evaluation report?

The correct answer is that a command should prepare an original plus four copies for an E7-E9 evaluation report. This requirement ensures that there are enough copies for distribution to the various stakeholders involved in the evaluation process. The original is typically submitted to the appropriate personnel office, while copies are provided for the individual being evaluated, their chain of command, and other relevant parties who may need to review the report for record-keeping or administrative purposes.

Having multiple copies allows for proper record management and ensures that all authorized personnel can access the evaluation without delay, maintaining transparency and accountability in the evaluation process. This practice is particularly important at higher pay grades, where evaluations can significantly impact career progression and promotion considerations. In contrast, options that suggest fewer copies would not meet the established protocol for adequately documenting and disseminating evaluation reports within a command.