This book has been designed to help you achieve your NVQ Administration award. It also provides an opportunity to look at business organisations, how they are structured and the duties carried out by various departments. You will find it contains all you need to gain a real understanding of work in a busy office. Although it is aimed primarily at those working for an NVQ, it is also suitable for most office skills courses. It is not just a textbook containing facts and information, it is also a workbook with the emphasis throughout on learning by doing. There are many practical activities and assignments, based on realistic situations, for you to complete, together with help on how to approach them. You will be developing your knowledge and practising skills as you carry out these activities. As you complete the tasks, label and file your work. This will build into an extensive portfolio which will help you to provide evidence towards your NVQ. This book provides the underpinning knowledge for the eight compulsory units of NVQ Administration Level 2. You will also need to choose one option unit from a choice of seven. Before making your choice, discuss the options with your tutor or line manager and, if possible, select one which links with your present job or career prospects.