Table 1.

ICF linking rules

Number	Rule
1	Acquire good knowledge of the conceptual and taxonomical fundamentals of the ICF, as well as of the chapters, domains and categories of the detailed classification, including definitions before starting to link meaningful concepts to the ICF categories
2	Identify the main concept(s) most relevant to be linked to the ICF
3	Identify any additional concepts contained in the piece of information in addition to the main concept(s) already identified in the previous step
4	Identify and document the perspective taken on within a certain piece of information when linking it to the ICF
5	Identify and document the categorisation of the response options
6	Link all meaningful concepts, the most relevant and additional ones, to the most precise ICF category
7	Use ‘other specified’ or ‘unspecified’ ICF categories as appropriate
8	If the information provided by the meaningful concept is not sufficient for making a decision about the most precise ICF category, assign the concept to nd (not definable)
9	If the meaningful concept is not contained in the ICF, but is clearly a personal factor as defined in the ICF, assign the meaningful concept to pf (personal factors)
10	If the meaningful concept is not contained in the ICF, assign this meaningful concept to nc (not covered)

ICF, International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health.