The first chapter explains the workings of the central records system and general index by taking an investigation through its typical document-generating steps. The chapter's appendixes list the types of documents typically found in FBI files, materials usually found only in field office files, and 210 annotated classification categories that form the bases of the FBI's filing and numbering system. The second chapter focuses on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act. The laws' major provisions, attempts by the FBI to attack the law, and ways citizens can counter FBI maneuvers during the processing of a FOIA request are detailed. The third chapter provides detailed instructions and materials to assist in initiating and perserving in a request for FBI files. Among the materials are sample request and appeal letters, a map locating all FBI field offices and resident agencies, and the addresses and telephone numbers of the FBI headquarters and field offices and of congressional oversight committees. The fourth chapter illustrates and explains typical FBI documents, while the final chapter presents an extensive glossary of FBI terms, abbreviations, and symbols. Notes for each chapter, a bibliography listing 63 citations, a list of sources of intelligence documents released under the FOIA, and a list of documents available in the FBI reading room are provided.