Archival description standards

Archival description standards are guidelines used by archivists to organize and document collections of records and historical materials. These standards help ensure that information about the records—such as their origins, content, and context—is clearly recorded and accessible. By following standardized practices, archivists can create detailed finding aids and catalogs, making it easier for researchers and the public to locate and understand the materials. Common standards include the International Council on Archives' principles and rules, which promote consistency and clarity in how we describe and manage archival resources.