The historical development of the assessment center method is reviewed; types of exercises provided in the text are delineated. The assessment center is defined; seven elements which are essential for a process to be considered an assessment center are analyzed. Additionally, requirements for training are identified, as are the kinds of activities that do not constitute an assessment center. Behavior is defined, and various techniques used to record behavior during assessment center exercises are delineated. The use and nature of dimensions utilized in the assessment center method are reviewed; the placement of recorded behavior into appropriate dimensions is illustrated. The procedure used in rating performance by dimension based upon behavior demonstrated during the exercises is explained; the assessor discussion step of the assessment center method is examined. Characteristics common to most assessment center exercises are identified; attention is focused on oral presentations, written problems, leaderless group discussions, games, fact finding, interview simulations, in-basket exercises, and background interviews. Finally, guidelines for assessors are provided. One flowchart is included.