Figure out when you are due to be looked at, starting a couple years before that get on the BUPERS website under "Boards" and review the info, starting with the eligibles list. The info should be posted in January...the next boards will be for FY13 (the year in which the promotions take effect).

Once you confirm you are eligible, make sure your record is up to date (you can view it in BUPERS Online). If you don't know what you're looking for get an experienced O-5/6 to help you, or you can pay the NRA (or whatever they call themselves now) to review your record for you.

If you are missing anything send a letter and copies of the documents to the board. Instructions and deadlines are on the BUPERS site.

The board will look at an IRR officer just like anyone else. However...too many years in the IRR will kill your chances because the drillers are accumulating FITREPs and punching tickets. Also the the tie probably goes to the driller. The IRR guy who gets promoted usually had a strong track record (better than average) and only 1-2 years IRR. If you have been mobilized that will help a lot.

Last year's O5 selection percentage was very low compared to past years. This may be because they are trying to thin the senior ranks, or there may have been a lot of guys go IRR to avoid mobilization.