Free guide for future soldiers
Prepare before you ship.
Operation Don’t Screw This Up is a direct, practical guide for future soldiers who want fewer surprises and better habits before Army Basic Training begins.
Real-world advice, without the recruiter pitch
Built from Christopher Chaos’s Army experience, the guide focuses on preparation, mindset, habits, and common mistakes that can make the transition harder than it needs to be.
- Know what deserves your attention before ship day
- Build useful physical and mental habits
- Avoid preventable mistakes
- Arrive ready to learn, adapt, and work
Independent guidance: This is personal advice from an Army veteran, not an official U.S. Army publication. Policies and training details can change, so confirm official requirements with your recruiter and current Army sources.
Keep preparing
Browse Army resources
Read practical explainers for future soldiers, current soldiers, veterans, and families.
Estimate your AFT score
Use the unofficial calculator, then verify current standards with official Army guidance.