This report is a primer for GBV actors on anticipatory action. It aims to provide a brief overview of what an anticipatory action approach is, including how this approach differs from disaster risk reduction and preparedness work. The report describes the systems, processes and timelines that align with the approach, including the different lead times for undertaking anticipatory actions depending on the specific type of emergency event, or hazard, and how these link to operational planning processes, including the design of GBV activities to be implemented as part of the anticipatory actions