Agencies must describe quality categories in what document?

The correct answer highlights that agencies are required to describe quality categories in job announcements. Job announcements serve as a critical communication tool used by agencies to articulate the specific qualifications, skills, and attributes they are seeking in potential candidates. Including quality categories in these announcements ensures that applicants are fully informed about the expectations and criteria used in the evaluation process. This transparency not only aids candidates in understanding what is necessary to be competitive but also establishes a standardized approach for assessing applicants, promoting consistency and fairness in the hiring process.

This practice directly aligns with the principles of effective recruitment and selection outlined in the Delegated Examining Operations Handbook, which emphasizes clear communication of job requirements. Other documents, such as internal memos or training manuals, may contain policies or procedures relevant to hiring, but they do not fulfill the essential function of clearly advertising the necessary qualifications and evaluation methods to the public and prospective applicants.