What is the purpose of a security classification guide?

The purpose of a security classification guide is to determine and outline how information should be classified and disclosed. This ensures that sensitive information is handled appropriately and in accordance with established policies. A security classification guide provides specific instructions on the nature of information, its classification levels, and the criteria for disclosure, ensuring that personnel can make informed decisions when dealing with classified materials.

The guide plays a crucial role in the protection of national security by laying out clear standards and procedures that safeguard sensitive data while facilitating necessary communication. This leads to consistent application of classification across various documents and types of information, promoting uniformity and compliance with security regulations.

The options that suggest outlining classification levels and disclosure guidelines, providing a historical account, or serving as a template for information sharing do not capture the primary function of the security classification guide, which is more focused on the evaluation and determination of how specific information should be managed in terms of classification and potential disclosure.