Which statement best describes derivative classification?

Which statement best describes derivative classification?

• A. Classifying material based on independent analysis
• B. Using existing classified information to produce a new document with a classification
• C. Releasing information without classification
• D. Declassifying a document

Answer: (D)

Derivative classification is the process of applying classification guidance from existing classified sources to a new document or product, determining the correct classification level and the proper markings for that derivative material. You base the decision on the content and the source materials, and you must cite those sources and carry forward the same handling controls. The goal is to keep consistency with how the information was originally classified, even as you create something new. This isn’t about making an independent determination of classification by yourself, nor is it about releasing information without classification, or about removing classification from a document. Those other actions describe different processes. For example, independently deciding classification would risk conflicting with established source guidance, releasing unclassified material would bypass proper controls, and declassifying is the act of removing classification, not applying it to new material.

Derivative classification is the process of applying classification guidance from existing classified sources to a new document or product, determining the correct classification level and the proper markings for that derivative material. You base the decision on the content and the source materials, and you must cite those sources and carry forward the same handling controls. The goal is to keep consistency with how the information was originally classified, even as you create something new.

This isn’t about making an independent determination of classification by yourself, nor is it about releasing information without classification, or about removing classification from a document. Those other actions describe different processes. For example, independently deciding classification would risk conflicting with established source guidance, releasing unclassified material would bypass proper controls, and declassifying is the act of removing classification, not applying it to new material.