Why must marking be consistent across all related documents?

Marking must be consistent across all related documents primarily to avoid confusion and ensure that all personnel understand the handling requirements. When documents that contain sensitive information are marked consistently, it creates a clear and uniform understanding of how each document should be treated. This is crucial for maintaining security and compliance with regulations, as inconsistent markings can lead to misinterpretation of the level of sensitivity or the specific handling procedures needed. Consistency aids in training personnel, facilitates communication, and reduces the risk of errors that could potentially compromise classified information. In an environment where multiple individuals may interact with classified materials, clear and uniform markings help uphold security protocols efficiently.