The document discusses performance appraisal, including its objectives, problems, essentials, and methods. It describes several traditional methods of performance appraisal like ranking, paired comparison, grading, and forced distribution. It also outlines modern methods such as assessment centers, human resource accounting, behaviorally anchored rating scales, management by objectives, and 360 degree appraisals. The goals of performance appraisal are to provide feedback, support decisions around promotions and punishments, diagnose strengths and weaknesses, and facilitate employee development, among other things. Common problems include errors in rating like halo effects and bias.