This descriptive guide provides introductory information geared to aid both the user and the information manager in the use of 3RIP, an online text database system consisting of three components: (1) a retrieval system used to locate and display records, (2) a file handler used to read records from files and to write records onto files, and (3) a text editor used to create and modify records. Chapters describe the system in general, 3RIP's menu-based dialogue for novices and occasional users, and 3RIP's standard command vocabulary. A search sample is displayed, and the managerial aspects of 3RIP are examined. An appendix contains some descriptions of 3RIP's demonstration search files. (FM)