A section on applying for civil service positions explains items covered in a job announcement and how to complete an application form. A typical job announcement for a parole officer is included. The manual then outlines techniques to improve study habits and perform well on the exam. Six sample examinations are provided for practice: the first three have 60-70 multiple-choice questions; the fourth is for a supervising probation officer position and has 100 multiple-choice questions; the fifth test has 80 multiple-choice questions; and the last practice exam consists of 250 true-false questions for parole officer candidates. Background materials discuss the court system, using New York State as an example; modern correctional concepts; essential elements of an effective parole system; principles of parole supervision; and parole problems. The manual's final sections contain suggestions to improve report writing, a quiz to test narcotics and drug knowledge, and exercises in reading comprehension.