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The first eight criteria classify occupations in terms of personal skills and abilities required. For level 1 personal skills and abilities, you need a practical level of the skill or ability to work in the occupation. Level 2 requires more advanced skills or abilities because the characteristic is a prominent feature of an occupation.

Each of the following skill and ability characteristics has a primary or secondary role in the occupation. The requirement of a practical or advanced level of knowledge and ability is also specified. Finally, a blank indicates basic level only.

Math skills. Math skills include the ability to perform calculations and manipulate data. Occupations that require math skills at level 1, including pharmacist and dietitians, involve the use of algebra, geometry and basic statistics. Level 2 occupations include those that require linear algebra, calculus, or other higher levels of math. Operations research analysts and engineers must have this level of skill.

English skills. English skills at level 1 include a good command of vocabulary and grammar and the ability to read and prepare correspondence, observations, and instructions; these skills are required for nearly every occupation. Level 2 English skills, important for reporters and public relations specialists, include the ability to comprehend and communicate complex instructions and ideas, as well as the ability to write clearly, persuasively, and creatively. In addition, workers with level 2 skills should have a vocabulary appropriate for understanding and expressing sophisticated subjects.

Science skills. These skills refer to knowledge of the physical or life sciences. Science skills at level 1 require an understanding of the principles of the physical and life sciences - biology, chemistry, geology, and physics - and are used by jewelers and surveyors. Level 2 science skills require an in-depth, theoretical knowledge of one or more of the physical and life sciences; chemists and meteorologists must have this skill level.

Computer skills. Computer skills refer to the ability to operate a computer and process data. Level 1 skills include the ability to use a computer to enter and manipulate data, make calculations, compose and print documents, access the Internet, or send electronic mail; administrative assistants and financial managers are among the occupations requiring this level of skill. Level 2 computer skills require a thorough understanding of computer hardware and software and how they interact. These skills are important for systems analysis and industrial production managers.

Artistic and creative skills. These are the ability to form ideas to solve problems, communicate information, or express feelings, thoughts, and emotions. At level 1, they include devising original ways of approaching an issue or making progress; level 1 skills are required of teachers and recreational therapists. Level 2 skills are useful for accomplishing projects and dealing with problems in new and unique ways. Architects and designers must have these skills.

Persuasive and interpersonal skills. These are skills that allow positive interaction between people and the ability to sway the actions, opinions, or beliefs of others. Occupations requiring persuasive and interpersonal skills usually involve frequent contact with the public. Level 1 skills include the ability to deal with others courteously and are required of physicians and bank tellers. Level 2 skills, important for lawyers and insurance agents, include the ability to sell products, ideas, or services convincingly.

Mechanical ability. Mechanical ability is an understanding of the relationship between moving parts. It involves knowledge of how objects connect and operate, as well as ability to diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical failures. At level 1, mechanical ability requires skill in working with tools to assemble or repair equipment or machinery and is needed by telephone installers and opticians. At level 2, important for millwrights and mechanical engineers, it requires the ability to design or modify equipment or machinery.

Leadership and managerial ability. This is the ability to direct and organize others to achieve common goals. Effective communication skills are also essential. Level ability, required of property managers and counselors, includes accepting responsibility for the work and actions of others. Level 2 ability includes motivating and inspiring others to achieve a common goal; education administrators and general managers require these skills.