Which document identifies the elements of information that must be classified and prescribes the level and duration of classification and declassification instructions?

• A. Classification Guide
• B. Classification Certificate
• C. Classification Plan
• D. Classification Policy

Answer: (A)

This question hinges on understanding which document lays out exactly what information must be classified and provides the levels and timeframes for keeping or releasing that information. The classification guide does just that: it identifies the elements of information that require protection, assigns the appropriate classification level, and sets the duration of that classification along with declassification instructions. It serves as the detailed reference for how new information should be classified and when it can be declassified. In contrast, a classification policy establishes broad organizational rules, a classification plan outlines how classification is carried out within a program, and a classification certificate is not a standard document for setting these requirements.