Which document provides guidance for selecting targets to produce effects?

The Air Operation Directive (AOD) serves as a critical document that outlines the objectives and provides the framework for selecting targets to produce intended effects within an operational environment. It directly communicates the commander's vision and intent, integrating various aspects of air operations, including target selection, priorities, and the desired outcomes.

The AOD assists planners and operators in understanding the overarching goals of an air operation, ensuring that targets align with strategic objectives. It also facilitates coordination among different branches and units within the military, thereby promoting a unified approach to targeting that maximizes effectiveness and efficiency in achieving mission success.

This directive is vital for ensuring that all actions taken in the field are deliberate and contribute toward achieving the desired strategic effects, making it the proper choice among the options provided. Other documents may address specific aspects of targeting or operations, but the AOD comprehensively aligns operational plans with higher-level strategic goals.