How to View Declassified Documents

You continue to have responsibilities when you view declassified documents. Despite attempts to get rid of all classified sections of a document, many are overlooked. Bring these discrepancies to the custodian when you're done viewing your documents.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Treat recently declassified documents the same way you'd treat classified documents. Ideally, declassified documents you're about to read should've been thoroughly been vetted. All classified sections should be marked out with a permanent, and powerful, marker.
2. Follow the same procedure when entering the building as you would to read a classified document. Hand your cellular phone, laptop and any recording or magnetic material to the front security office. Check your pockets and other areas to double check what you have before entering the room containing the recently declassified document.
3. Sign the document out from the custodian. Read the material in a room where nobody could look over your shoulders, or spy on you from outside. These may be drastic for someone wanting to view declassified documents. The value of doing things this way becomes apparent as soon as you turn the page and see classified material that wasn't marked out.
4. Write down, on a piece of paper, the chapter and page number where you view classified material. Do this for every classified material that comes within view. Continue reading the declassified text, then turn the document in to the custodian. Inform him of the classified sections that weren't marked out. Hand him your notes with page locations.
5. Make sure that you're cleared before leaving the room and retrieving your materials. Check every pocket to make sure you're not leaving with something that you don't have.