Based on the premise that anyone who works with words needs to understand copyright law, this handbook provides forms and step-by-step instructions for protecting all types of written expression under United States and international copyright law. The handbook discusses: (1) how to register a written work with the copyright office; (2) what types of works can be protected; (3) when and how to use a copyright notice; (4) copyright protection for works for hire, adaptations, new editions, compilations (databases and catalogs), and electronic mail; (5) rights and duration of ownership; (6) transfer of copyright ownership; (7) what constitutes infringement and how to avoid it; (8) how to recognize a derivative work; (9) fair use: when and how copyrighted material can be used; (10) electronic publishing rights; (11) registration of multimedia works and multimedia rights; and (12) the impact of GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade) on copyright law. The handbook concludes with lists of background resources and primary source materials on copyrights; a section on how to find a copyright lawyer; and diverse forms for different types of copyright, as well as various blank forms. (NKA)