Derivative Classification Answers
Derivative Classification answers for exam and test study: search 40 questions, compare the cited guidance and review the bank with free flashcards.
Work through derivative classification questions about authorized sources, classification guidance and the contained-in and revealed-by concepts. Compare the July 2021 CDSE IF103.16 student-guide passages with the cited Executive Order 13526 provisions. Where an older answer key conflicts with those sources, read the displayed correction before relying on the key; missing answer options are not reconstructed from guesses.
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01What is derivative classification?
Derivative classification is the incorporating, paraphrasing, restating, or generating in new form information that is already classified, and marking the newly developed material consistent with the classification markings that apply to the source information.
Why this answer
Making another copy of an existing classified document is not, by itself, derivative classification: the order expressly excludes duplication or reproduction. Incorporating or paraphrasing its classified information into newly developed material is different, because the new material must carry the classification applicable to the source information.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“"Derivative classification" means the incorporating, paraphrasing, restating, or generating in new form information that is already classified, and marking the newly developed material consistent with the classification markings that apply to the source information. Derivative classification includes the classification of information based on classification guidance. The duplication or reproduction of existing classified information is not derivative classification.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 6.1(o) (Definitions) ↗02When derivatively classifying information, where can you find a listing of specific information elements that identify their classification, reason for classification, downgrading, and declassification information?
The Security Classification Guide (SCG). An SCG is a collection of precise, comprehensive guidance about specific program, system, operation, or weapon system elements of information to be classified.
Why this answer
An SCG is useful here because it ties guidance to each specific information element, rather than supplying only a general label for the program. For the element being used, the classifier can check the level, the reason, and the downgrading or declassification instruction together.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“An SCG is a collection of precise, comprehensive guidance about a specific program, system, operation, or weapon system telling what elements of information are classified. For each element of information, the SCG includes its classification level, the reasons for that classification, and when the information can be downgraded or declassified. For this reason, SCGs are the primary source for derivative classification.”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 2-6 ↗03What are the authorized sources for derivative classification?
There are only two authorized sources for derivative classification: (1) a Security Classification Guide (SCG), and (2) a properly marked source document. (A DD Form 254 is a contract security specification, not an authorized source.)
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“There are only two authorized sources for derivative classification. The first source is a Security Classification Guide or SCG. ... A second authorized source for derivative classification is an existing, properly marked source document from which information is extracted, paraphrased, restated, and/or generated in a new form for inclusion in another document. ... These two sources are the only authorized sources for derivative classification. Any other source is unauthorized and must not be used as the basis for derivative classification.”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 2-6 ↗04All of the following are steps in derivative classification EXCEPT:
The steps listed in the existing answer do not match the CDSE course. IF103.16 gives FIVE process steps: (1) Analyze the material to be classified, (2) Use authorized sources for guidance, (3) Seek additional guidance to resolve uncertainty, (4) Determine downgrading/declassification dates, (5) Mark new document. Note this question has no answer options in the data file, so the 'EXCEPT' distractor cannot be verified -- consider rewriting it around the five documented steps.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Process steps: Analyze the material to be classified / Use authorized sources for guidance / Seek additional guidance to resolve uncertainty / Determine downgrading/declassification dates / Mark new document”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 2-6 (Process steps) ↗05What is the difference between original classification and derivative classification?
Original classification is an initial determination that information requires protection in the interest of national security, made only by individuals with Original Classification Authority (OCA). Derivative classification uses existing classified information to create new documents — anyone with proper clearance, access, and training can perform derivative classification.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The authority to classify information originally may be exercised only by: (1) the President and the Vice President; (2) agency heads and officials designated by the President; and (3) United States Government officials delegated this authority pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section. ... Persons who reproduce, extract, or summarize classified information, or who apply classification markings derived from source material or as directed by a classification guide, need not possess original classification authority.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 1.3(a) and Sec. 2.1(a) ↗06What is the 'contained in' concept?
The 'contained in' concept applies when classified information is extracted directly (word-for-word or in substance) from an authorized source and placed into a new document. No additional interpretation or analysis is needed to determine the classification.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The concept of "contained in" applies when derivative classifiers incorporate classified information from an authorized source into a new document, and no additional interpretation or analysis is needed to determine the classification of that information.”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 3-1 ↗07What is the 'revealed by' concept?
Directionally right but reframe to match CDSE. The course defines 'revealed by' from the derivative classifier's side -- incorporating information from an authorized source that is not clearly or explicitly stated in that source (so additional interpretation or analysis IS needed to determine the classification). The existing answer describes it from the reader's side ('a reader can deduce or infer'), which is not how IF103.16 states it.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The concept of "revealed by" applies when derivative classifiers incorporate classified information from an authorized source into a new document that is not clearly or explicitly stated in the source document.”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 3-4 ↗08What is compilation?
Compilation is the concept that individually unclassified items of information, when combined or associated together, may reveal an additional association or relationship that warrants classification. The compiled information may be classified at a higher level than the individual pieces.
Why this answer
Combining unclassified items does not automatically make the result classified. The quoted rule requires an additional association or relationship that both meets classification standards and is not already revealed by the individual items. A bundle that exposes no such new relationship does not satisfy this compilation rule.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Compilations of items of information that are individually unclassified may be classified if the compiled information reveals an additional association or relationship that: (1) meets the standards for classification under this order; and (2) is not otherwise revealed in the individual items of information.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 1.7(e) ↗09What information must appear on the 'Classified by' line of a derivatively classified document?
The name and position, or personal identifier, of the derivative classifier. This identifies who performed the derivative classification action.
Why this answer
Naming the classifier is not always the complete marking. If the agency and office of origin are not otherwise evident, the quoted rule requires them after the name on the "Classified By" line. Check whether the document already makes that origin clear before treating the name alone as sufficient.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Derivative classifiers shall be identified by name and position, or by personal identifier, in a manner that is immediately apparent on each derivatively classified document. If not otherwise evident, the agency and office of origin shall be identified and follow the name on the "Classified By" line.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(b) ↗10What information must appear on the 'Derived from' line?
The source(s) of classification — either the Security Classification Guide, the specific source document(s), or 'Multiple Sources' if using more than one source. If using multiple sources, a source list must be maintained with the file or record copy.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The derivative classifier shall concisely identify the source document or the classification guide on the "Derived From" line, including the agency and, where available, the office of origin, and the date of the source or guide. ... When a document is classified derivatively on the basis of more than one source document or classification guide, the "Derived From" line shall appear as: Derived From: Multiple Sources ... The derivative classifier shall include a listing of the source materials on, or attached to, each derivatively classified document.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(c)(1) ↗11What are the three classification levels?
Confidential (unauthorized disclosure could cause damage to national security), Secret (unauthorized disclosure could cause serious damage to national security), and Top Secret (unauthorized disclosure could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security).
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“(1) "Top Secret" shall be applied to information, the unauthorized disclosure of which reasonably could be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security that the original classification authority is able to identify or describe. (2) "Secret" shall be applied to information, the unauthorized disclosure of which reasonably could be expected to cause serious damage to the national security ... (3) "Confidential" shall be applied to information, the unauthorized disclosure of which reasonably could be expected to cause damage to the national security ...”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 1.2(a) ↗12What is portion marking?
Portion marking is the practice of marking each portion (paragraph, section, title, subject line, etc.) of a classified document with the appropriate classification level abbreviation: (TS) for Top Secret, (S) for Secret, (C) for Confidential, and (U) for Unclassified.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Each portion of a document, ordinarily a paragraph, but including subjects, titles, graphics, tables, charts, bullet statements, sub-paragraphs, classified signature blocks, bullets and other portions within slide presentations, and the like, shall be marked to indicate which portions are classified and which portions are unclassified by placing a parenthetical symbol immediately preceding the portion to which it applies. (1) To indicate the appropriate classification level, the symbols "(TS)" for Top Secret, "(S)" for Secret, and "(C)" for Confidential will be used. (2) Portions which do not meet the standards of the Order for classification shall be marked with "(U)" for Unclassified.”
— 32 CFR 2001.21(c) ↗13How often must derivative classifiers receive training?
INCOMPLETE for the DoD audience this quiz targets. EO 13526 Sec. 2.1(d) sets a government-wide FLOOR of 'at least once every 2 years'. But the CDSE IF103.16 student guide states verbatim: 'Derivative Classification training is mandatory and an annual requirement. Personnel shall receive this training prior to derivatively classifying information.' Correct answer should say: required BEFORE derivatively classifying, then at least every 2 years under EO 13526 -- but ANNUALLY for DoD personnel per CDSE/DoD policy. Failure to train suspends derivative classification authority.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Persons who apply derivative classification markings shall receive training in the proper application of the derivative classification principles of the order, with an emphasis on avoiding over-classification, at least once every 2 years. Derivative classifiers who do not receive such training at least once every 2 years shall have their authority to apply derivative classification markings suspended until they have received such training.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 2.1(d); CDSE IF103.16 Student Guide (July 2021), p. 1-3 ↗14What should you do if you find a conflict between two classification sources?
Apply the more restrictive classification marking and consult your security manager or the Original Classification Authority (OCA) to resolve the conflict. Do not downgrade the classification on your own.
15What is the overall (banner) classification marking?
The highest classification level of any portion within the document. It is placed at the top and bottom of each page. For example, if a document contains both Secret and Unclassified portions, the banner marking is SECRET.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The highest level of classification is determined by the highest level of any one portion within the document and shall appear in a way that will distinguish it clearly from the informational text. (1) Conspicuously place the overall classification at the top and bottom of the outside of the front cover (if any), on the title page (if any), on the first page, and on the outside of the back cover (if any). (2) For documents containing information classified at more than one level, the overall marking shall be the highest level. For example, if a document contains some information marked "Secret" and other information marked "Confidential," the overall marking would be "Secret."”
— 32 CFR 2001.21(b) ↗16What is a classification challenge?
The right of any authorized holder of classified information to formally challenge the classification of that information if they believe it is improperly classified (over-classified or under-classified). Individuals may not be penalized for making a classification challenge.
Why this answer
The order frames a good-faith challenge as something authorized holders are "encouraged and expected" to make through agency procedures, not merely an option reserved for a supervisor. Its protection against retribution applies to bringing that challenge; the procedure is the route for resolving the classification concern.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Authorized holders of information who, in good faith, believe that its classification status is improper are encouraged and expected to challenge the classification status of the information in accordance with agency procedures established under paragraph (b) of this section. ... These procedures shall ensure that: (1) individuals are not subject to retribution for bringing such actions;”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 1.8(a)-(b) ↗17What are the declassification instructions that must appear on derivatively classified documents?
The 'Declassify on' line must carry forward the declassification date or event from the source. If multiple sources have different dates, use the longest duration. If the source is marked with a 25-year date (25X), carry that forward.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“For information derivatively classified based on multiple sources, the derivative classifier shall carry forward: (A) the date or event for declassification that corresponds to the longest period of classification among the sources, or the marking established pursuant to section 1.6(a)(4)(D) of this order; and (B) a listing of the source materials.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 2.1(b); 32 CFR 2001.22(e)(2) ↗18What is 'generating' in derivative classification?
Generating is producing classified information in a new form or medium, such as converting a classified document into a video, DVD, CD, or other format. The new material must be marked consistent with the source classification.
19Who has Original Classification Authority (OCA)?
Only officials specifically designated in writing by the President, Vice President, or agency heads and officials delegated this authority. OCA must be held by a U.S. Government official occupying a position with the authority to make original classification decisions.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The authority to classify information originally may be exercised only by: (1) the President and the Vice President; (2) agency heads and officials designated by the President; and (3) United States Government officials delegated this authority pursuant to paragraph (c) of this section.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 1.3(a) ↗20What is a Security Classification Guide (SCG)?
A document issued by an Original Classification Authority that provides derivative classifiers with specific guidance on the classification of a system, plan, program, project, or mission. It identifies the elements of information regarding the subject that must be classified.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“An SCG is a collection of precise, comprehensive guidance about a specific program, system, operation, or weapon system telling what elements of information are classified. For each element of information, the SCG includes its classification level, the reasons for that classification, and when the information can be downgraded or declassified.”
— CDSE IF103.16 Derivative Classification Student Guide (July 2021), p. 2-6; 32 CFR 2001.15(b) ↗21What is the DD Form 254?
The Contract Security Classification Specification, which is the primary means for communicating security classification guidance to contractors. It identifies the classified access requirements for a classified contract.
22All of the following are responsibilities of derivative classifiers EXCEPT:
Having original classification authority is NOT a responsibility of derivative classifiers. Their responsibilities include: observing and respecting original classification decisions, carrying forward classification markings, applying proper markings, and using authorized sources.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Persons who reproduce, extract, or summarize classified information, or who apply classification markings derived from source material or as directed by a classification guide, need not possess original classification authority. (b) Persons who apply derivative classification markings shall: (1) be identified by name and position, or by personal identifier, in a manner that is immediately apparent for each derivative classification action; (2) observe and respect original classification decisions; and (3) carry forward to any newly created documents the pertinent classification markings.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 2.1(a)-(b) ↗23What must you do before creating a derivatively classified document?
Ensure you have proper security clearance at or above the level of the information, a need-to-know for the information, access to authorized classification guidance (SCG, source documents, or DD Form 254), and current derivative classification training.
24What are the consequences of improperly classifying information?
Over-classification wastes resources and impedes information sharing. Under-classification may expose national security information to unauthorized disclosure. Both can result in sanctions including reprimand, suspension, or loss of classification authority.
Why this answer
The sanctions provision is not limited to deliberate leaks. It expressly covers negligent conduct and classifying or continuing classification in violation of the order. Thus, lack of an intent to disclose information does not by itself put an improper classification action outside this provision.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Officers and employees of the United States Government, and its contractors, licensees, certificate holders, and grantees shall be subject to appropriate sanctions if they knowingly, willfully, or negligently: (1) disclose to unauthorized persons information properly classified under this order or predecessor orders; (2) classify or continue the classification of information in violation of this order or any implementing directive;”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 5.5(b) ↗25When multiple sources are used for derivative classification, what should the 'Derived from' line state?
'Multiple Sources.' When citing multiple sources, a listing of all sources must be included on or attached to the document, or maintained with the file or record copy.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“When a document is classified derivatively on the basis of more than one source document or classification guide, the "Derived From" line shall appear as: Derived From: Multiple Sources (ii) The derivative classifier shall include a listing of the source materials on, or attached to, each derivatively classified document.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(c)(1)(i)-(ii) ↗26What is the 'Declassify on' line used for?
To indicate when the classified information can be declassified. It carries forward the declassification date or event from the source material. Only OCAs can establish original declassification dates.
Why this answer
With multiple source durations, do not use the earliest date merely because one source becomes declassifiable then. For example, if one applicable source date is 2030 and another is 2035, the longest-duration rule points to 2035 for the derivative document. The example illustrates carrying forward source instructions, not creating a new date.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The derivative classifier shall carry forward the instructions on the "Declassify On" line from the source document to the derivative document, or the duration instruction from the classification or declassification guide ... When a document is classified derivatively on the basis of more than one source document or more than one element of a classification guide, the "Declassify On" line shall reflect the longest duration of any of its sources.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(e)(1)-(2) ↗27What is the purpose of the 'Reason' line on a classified document?
The 'Reason' line identifies the reason for the original classification as specified in Section 1.4 of Executive Order 13526. Derivative classifiers do NOT include a 'Reason' line — it appears only on originally classified documents.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The reason for the original classification decision, as reflected in the source document(s) or classification guide, is not transferred in a derivative classification action.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(d); 32 CFR 2001.21(a)(3) ↗28True or False: Derivative classifiers can upgrade the classification of information beyond what is stated in the source.
False. Derivative classifiers must carry forward the classification as determined by the OCA. Only an OCA can change the classification level of information. If you believe information should be classified differently, use the classification challenge process.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Persons who apply derivative classification markings shall: ... (2) observe and respect original classification decisions; and (3) carry forward to any newly created documents the pertinent classification markings.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 2.1(b)(2)-(3) ↗29What marking is used for unclassified portions within a classified document?
(U) is used to mark unclassified portions within a classified document. This allows readers to quickly identify which portions contain classified information and which do not.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Portions which do not meet the standards of the Order for classification shall be marked with "(U)" for Unclassified.”
— 32 CFR 2001.21(c)(2) ↗30What is the purpose of Executive Order 13526?
Executive Order 13526, signed December 29, 2009, establishes the framework for the classification, safeguarding, and declassification of national security information. It defines classification levels, principles, authorities, and procedures.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“This order prescribes a uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national security information, including information relating to defense against transnational terrorism.”
— Executive Order 13526, preamble (December 29, 2009) ↗31What are the marking requirements for emails containing classified information?
The subject line must include the highest classification level in parentheses, e.g., (S). Each portion of the email body must be portion-marked. The overall classification banner must appear at the top and bottom. The 'Classified by' and 'Derived from' lines must be included.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“E-mail transmitted on or prepared for transmission on classified systems or networks shall be configured to display the overall classification at the top and bottom of the body of each message. The overall classification marking string for the e-mail shall reflect the classification of the header and body of the message. This includes the subject line, the text of the e-mail, a classified signature block, attachments, included messages, and any other information conveyed in the body of the e-mail.”
— 32 CFR 2001.23(b)(1) ↗32What is 'tentative classification'?
When a derivative classifier is uncertain about the classification of information and cannot resolve it through available guidance, they should apply the more restrictive classification tentatively and seek clarification from the OCA or security manager as soon as possible.
33What action should you take if you discover classified information in an unclassified document?
Immediately protect the document as classified at the appropriate level, notify your security manager, and do not further distribute the document until proper classification review is completed.
34How should classified information from a Foreign Government be handled?
Foreign Government Information (FGI) must be classified at least at the Confidential level and may not be declassified without the originating government's consent. FGI markings must be carried forward in derivative classification.
35What is the 'Date of Origin' on a classified document?
The date the document was created. It is used in conjunction with the declassification instructions to determine when information may be declassified. The date of origin is a required marking on all classified documents.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The date of origin of the document shall be indicated in a manner that is immediately apparent.”
— 32 CFR 2001.22(i) ↗36What is the role of the Information Security Oversight Office (ISOO)?
ISOO oversees the government-wide security classification system, monitors agency compliance with classification policies, reports to the President, and issues implementing directives for Executive Order 13526.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“There is established within the National Archives an Information Security Oversight Office. ... the Director of the Information Security Oversight Office shall: (1) develop directives for the implementation of this order; (2) oversee agency actions to ensure compliance with this order and its implementing directives;”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 5.2(a)-(b) ↗37What is the significance of '25X' in declassification markings?
25X indicates that the information is exempt from automatic declassification at 25 years per one of the exemption categories in Section 3.3(b) of Executive Order 13526. It must include the specific exemption number, such as 25X1 for human intelligence sources.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“the "Declassify On" line shall be revised to include the symbol "25X" plus the number(s) that corresponds to the category(ies) in section 3.3(b) of the Order.”
— 32 CFR 2001.26(a)(1); Executive Order 13526, Sec. 3.3(b)(1) ↗38Can classified information be transmitted via unclassified email?
No. Classified information must never be transmitted via unclassified email systems. It must only be sent through information systems approved for the appropriate classification level, such as SIPRNet for Secret or JWICS for Top Secret.
39What is a 'classified addendum'?
A supplemental section attached to an otherwise unclassified document that contains classified information. The addendum is marked and handled at the classified level, while the base document remains unclassified when separated from the addendum.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Derivative classifiers shall, whenever practicable, use a classified addendum whenever classified information constitutes a small portion of an otherwise unclassified document or prepare a product to allow for dissemination at the lowest level of classification possible or in unclassified form.”
— Executive Order 13526, Sec. 2.1(c) ↗40What passing score is required on the IF103.16 exam?
First half correct (75%). Second half is wrong for DoD: CDSE states 'Derivative Classification training is mandatory and an annual requirement,' not 'every two years.' EO 13526 Sec. 2.1(d)'s 'at least once every 2 years' is a government-wide floor, not the DoD cadence.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A passing score of 75 percent or higher on the final exam allows students to print a certificate of successful completion.”
— CDSE IF103.16 course page, Exam Requirements ↗Know questions we're missing?
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