This study grew out of the discussions of a group of archivists convened in 1989. Although universal in application, the study was prepared particularly for developing countries and is intended for archivists who work with records containing personal information. The publication defines "personal information" and outlines the characteristics of records containing such information. Special consideration is given to personnel records of government employees. The appraisal of these records encounters numerous problems for which the study proposes general guidelines. A conceptual model (macro-appraisal) and its application in practical archival work are presented. A summary of the guidelines that highlights the key points of the study is included. (Contains 68 references.) (KRN)