This guide provides basic instruction on how to search the ERIC database on the SilverPlatter CD-ROM, which is the computerized equivalent to Current Index to Journals in Education (CIJE) and Resources in Education (RIE). The entire database is available on three discs, from 1966 to the present. Included in this guide is a description of the ERIC network and its scope as well as discussions of when it is most appropriate to search ERIC's print version, ERIC online, or ERIC on CD-ROM. Sample ERIC journal and document entries which are tagged to identify an entry's fields are followed by a list of the 11 basic fields with brief descriptions and examples of how to search the specific fields. A search example which utilizes Boolean logic demonstrates two methods of searching by subject headings/descriptors; the free text search technique is also discussed. An example of how this strategy would look on CD-ROM is provided and a sample entry is included. Other methods which can be used to refine a search (e.g., searching only the major descriptors, limiting by document type, limiting by education level descriptors, or limiting by year) are included. A list of descriptors that correspond to the publication type categories is provided as well as definitions of the mandatory educational level descriptors. Finally, information is provided on the functions of the "find,""show," and "print" keys. (MAB)