The administration of and planning for America's first census of the aptitudes, achievements, and talent potentials of its youth is described. The selection of students and schools to be sampled is discussed, and the test batteries used are described from their construction to the processing and analysis of the data obtained. Backgrounds and a description are also presented for: (1) the Student Activities Inventory; (2) the Interest Inventory; (3) the Student Information Blank; (4) the General School Characteristics Questionnaire; (5) the Guidance Program Questionnaire; and (6) the Counselor's Questionnaire. Possible applications are discussed for two themes that were utilized in the test batteries. Finally, the expected results to be gained from the survey, and the rationale of future volumes in the series are presented.