A study examined the new editions of four of the best-selling reading programs along with workbooks of several different publishers of social studies, science, and language arts programs. An analysis was carried out of the types of tasks found in workbooks and the content of the tasks. Results indicated that the workbooks contain numerous and variable tasks or format types, but that the formats are common across subject matter and grade levels. The study hypothesized that to be successful completing workbook tasks, students must be able to understand, manipulate, and handle large numbers of workbook formats. The study also hypothesized that students who develop this skill are cognizant of some aspects of workbooks that are described under the label, "workbook genre." The study proposed that workbooks be improved so that teachers and students can benefit from their intended effects. (Two tables of data are included, and 23 example workbook pages are attached.) (Author/MG)