This data file user's manual documents the procedures used to collect and process high school transcripts for a large sample of the younger cohort (1980 sophomores) in the High School and Beyond survey. The manual provides the user with the technical assistance needed to use the computer file and also discusses the following: (1) sample design for the high school transcripts survey, (2) data collection, (3) data control and preparation, (4) data processing, (5) organization and content of the data file, and (6) codebook. (PN)