This tech prep planning handbook is based on the research conducted at the Office of Community College Research and Leadership, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The study involved information gathering procedures at each of the 17 tech prep pilot sites about their planning activities. Seven sections are included: (1) tech prep in Illinois; (2) applying the tech prep planning process; (3) involving key groups in planning tech prep; (4) developing the components of tech prep--local policies, staff development, articulated curriculum, curriculum development, written agreements, guidance and counseling, marketing, and business/industry collaboration; (5) putting tech prep into action; (6) evaluating the tech prep plan; and (7) four appendices--contributors, words of advice, 1990-1991 Tech Prep Initiatives' Profiles, and 15 suggested resources. (NLA)