This document discusses various methods for performance appraisal. It begins by defining performance appraisal and listing its key objectives as setting goals, evaluating performance, identifying training needs, rewarding performance, and improving performance. It then describes both past-oriented methods like rating scales, reports, essays and critical incidents, as well as future-oriented methods like management by objectives, 360-degree feedback, and psychological assessments. Several specific methods are defined in detail, such as graphic rating scales, confidential reports, essays, critical incidents, checklists, forced choice, and behaviorally anchored rating scales.