Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records is crucial for individuals and organizations alike. For members of the US military, filling out forms correctly is essential for various purposes, including performance evaluations, awards, and administrative actions. One such form is the AF Form 245, also known as the "Airman Performance Report (APR)". This form is used to evaluate the performance of airmen in the US Air Force and Space Force. In this article, we will discuss five ways to fill out the AF Form 245 correctly.
Understanding the AF Form 245
Before we dive into the ways to fill out the form correctly, it's essential to understand the purpose and structure of the AF Form 245. The form is divided into several sections, each with its own specific requirements.
- Section I: Administrative Data
- Section II: Performance Factors
- Section III: Performance Achievements
- Section IV: Performance Deficiencies
- Section V: Supervisor's Endorsement
- Section VI: Rated Airman's Comments
Section I: Administrative Data
This section requires basic administrative information about the airman being evaluated, including their name, rank, and Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC).
- Ensure that the airman's name is spelled correctly and matches their official records.
- Verify the airman's rank and AFSC to ensure accuracy.
- Double-check the evaluation period dates to ensure they are correct.
5 Ways to Fill Out the AF Form 245 Correctly
Now that we have a basic understanding of the form, let's dive into the five ways to fill out the AF Form 245 correctly.
1. Accurate Administrative Data
As mentioned earlier, Section I requires accurate administrative data. Ensuring that this information is correct is crucial, as it will affect the entire evaluation process.
- Verify the airman's information against their official records to ensure accuracy.
- Use the correct rank and AFSC to avoid any confusion or miscommunication.
- Double-check the evaluation period dates to ensure they are correct.
2. Clear and Concise Performance Factors
Section II requires the rater to evaluate the airman's performance factors, including their duty performance, leadership and management, and adaptability.
- Use clear and concise language when evaluating the airman's performance factors.
- Avoid using vague or generic terms that don't provide specific examples.
- Focus on specific behaviors or actions that demonstrate the airman's performance.
3. Specific Performance Achievements
Section III requires the rater to document specific performance achievements, including accomplishments, awards, and recognition.
- Use specific examples to demonstrate the airman's achievements.
- Avoid using general statements that don't provide concrete evidence.
- Focus on achievements that demonstrate the airman's impact on the organization.
4. Constructive Performance Deficiencies
Section IV requires the rater to document any performance deficiencies, including areas for improvement and developmental needs.
- Use constructive language when documenting performance deficiencies.
- Avoid using negative or critical language that can be perceived as punitive.
- Focus on specific behaviors or actions that need improvement.
5. Supervisor's Endorsement and Rated Airman's Comments
Sections V and VI require the supervisor's endorsement and the rated airman's comments, respectively.
- Ensure that the supervisor's endorsement is signed and dated.
- Provide the rated airman with the opportunity to comment on their evaluation.
- Encourage the rated airman to provide feedback on their performance and areas for improvement.
By following these five ways to fill out the AF Form 245 correctly, raters can ensure that they are providing accurate and constructive evaluations that will help airmen grow and develop in their careers.
What is the purpose of the AF Form 245?
+The AF Form 245 is used to evaluate the performance of airmen in the US Air Force and Space Force.
What sections are included in the AF Form 245?
+The AF Form 245 includes six sections: Administrative Data, Performance Factors, Performance Achievements, Performance Deficiencies, Supervisor's Endorsement, and Rated Airman's Comments.
What is the importance of accurate administrative data in the AF Form 245?
+Accurate administrative data is crucial to ensure that the evaluation is correct and affects the entire evaluation process.