FAR 52.300—Scope of subpart.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 52.300 is a scope statement for the contract clause matrix in Subpart 52.3. It explains that the matrix is organized with a separate column for each principal type and/or purpose of contract, as identified in FAR 52.101(e). In practical terms, this tells users how to read the matrix and where to look for the clauses that apply to a particular contract category. The section does not itself impose substantive contract requirements; instead, it provides the organizing principle for the clause matrix so contracting officers, contractors, and reviewers can quickly determine which clauses are associated with which contract types or purposes. Its significance is administrative but important: it supports consistent clause selection, reduces the risk of using the wrong clause set, and helps ensure solicitations and contracts are assembled correctly.
Key Rules
Matrix uses contract-type columns
The matrix is arranged with a separate column for each principal type and/or purpose of contract. This structure is the basic reference point for identifying which clauses apply to a given procurement.
Refer to FAR 52.101(e)
The principal types and/or purposes of contract are those described in FAR 52.101(e). Users must use that cross-reference to understand the column headings and match the correct contract category to the matrix.
Scope is organizational only
This section does not create new clause requirements or exceptions. It simply defines the scope and layout of the matrix that follows in Subpart 52.3.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Use the matrix as organized by contract type or purpose, and consult FAR 52.101(e) to identify the correct column when selecting clauses for a solicitation or contract.
Contractor
Understand that clause applicability is tied to the contract type or purpose reflected in the matrix; review the solicitation and contract clauses in light of the applicable column.
Agency acquisition personnel
Apply the matrix consistently when preparing or reviewing contract documents, ensuring the correct clause set is aligned with the principal type and/or purpose of the contract.
Practical Implications
This section is a navigation aid: it tells you how to use the clause matrix, not what the clauses themselves require.
A common pitfall is reading the matrix without first identifying the correct principal contract type or purpose under FAR 52.101(e).
Contracting officers should verify the contract category before relying on a column, because the wrong classification can lead to missing or unnecessary clauses.
Contractors should not assume every column applies; they should focus on the column tied to the actual contract type or purpose.
Because the section is purely structural, any substantive compliance obligations come from the individual clauses listed in the matrix, not from FAR 52.300 itself.
Official Regulatory Text
The matrix contains a column for each principal type and/or purpose of contract (see 52.101 (e)).