Department of the Air Force E-Publishing > Publications + Forms
Summary: The Tongue and Quill (AFH 33-337) is the definitive Air Force guide for effective communication, covering writing, speaking, and workplace documentation standards.
The Tongue and Quill (AFH 33-337) serves as the primary reference for Air Force personnel regarding communication. It outlines a seven-step process for effective writing and speaking, emphasizes the importance of plain language, and provides standardized formats for official Air Force documents, including memoranda, staff studies, and bullet background papers. This edition, incorporating changes through November 2015, also addresses modern workplace challenges such as electronic communication, social media usage, and effective meeting management.
Document outline
1. Part I: Communication Basics (Philosophy, Principles, Seven Steps) 2. Part II: Preparing to Write and Speak (Analysis, Research, Support, Organization) 3. Part III: Writing with Focus (Drafting, Editing, Feedback, Approval) 4. Part IV: Speaking and Listening (Verbal/Non-verbal, Slides, Listening Strategies) 5. Part V: Workplace Challenges (E-mail, Social Media, Meetings) 6. Part VI: Document Standards (Memoranda, Personal Letters, Papers, Staff Studies, Staff Packages, Bullet Statements, Biographies)