How to Write a FITREP
Directions for Chiefs Evaluation & Counseling Form
The Summary
Just as the introduction (first one or two lines of the FitRep) was a masterpiece of concise expression, the summary must sum up the impression the writer is trying to convey. Normally, one or two lines are used at the bottom of the Comments on Performance block to tie up the loose ends.
- Introduction: two or three lines for the rater to describe the ratee's performance and character.
- The introduction should describe aspects of character not readily apparent from accomplishments.
- Introduction/accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment
- accomplishment/Summary
- Summary: one or two lines used to summarize the ratee's performance and make a promotion statement.
Summary Statement Examples
- Exceptional performer--further challenge with most difficult tasks--promote ahead of peers!
- ITC1 Smith has shown tremendous growth, has overcome all obstacles, and is ready for a more challenging
billet. A clear choice for Chief Petty Officer, Promote NOW! - Petty Officer X is a trusted technical and tactical expert, dedicated to training and guiding Junior Sailors to success. READY FOR ANCHORS NOW! I WANT HIM IN MY MESS!
- Maintained a million property account with a 98% accuracy rating. Best accountability of ten sections. Prime
candidate for increased responsibilities. Must Promote! - ***PROFESSIONAL, METHODICAL, AND TECHNICALLY ASTUTE! PROMOTE NOW!!!***
More examples of FitRep Closing Comments and Recommendations
As you can see, the summary isn't an accomplishment. It's a statement describing how the supervisor views the ratee. And the promotion statement is more or less a tradition and required.
If a promotion statement isn't included in the Summary, it indicates that the rater doesn't think the person should be promoted and is subtly communicating that fact to any future reviewer. If deserved, the promotion statement should be included because it is expected.
Stratification
Many units insist on stratification. This is usually done within the Introduction. But, if you had something else in mind for that opening introduction and just couldn't shoehorn it in, you can squeeze it into the summary line.
Sample Stratification/ Summary Statements:
- My #1 of 9 CPOs! Superior performance across the board--give him bigger challenges--promote now!
- My number one CPO; proven, exemplary track record confirms he is ready for immediate promotion!
- Best of shop apprentices, a hard working Seaman. Quickly site-qualified. Challenge with more responsibilities.
You shouldn't make more than one stratification statement. If you already made a stratification statement in the introductory line, don't do it again here.