This paper provides a research-based examination of classroom management that focuses on six classroom rules. The paper's introduction contains a discussion that establishes the importance of effective classroom management strategies and an investigation of the literature to gain a better understanding of ineffective and effective rules. The six classroom rules are: (1) rules must be rational, consistent, and easily understood; (2) rules must address the desired behavior and answer two questions: Is the rule necessary? and Is a specific behavior targeted in the rule?; (3) too many rules may defeat the behavioral or academic purpose, and too many rules can result in rules that are not enforced; (4) rules must fit within the structure of the school's code of conduct and be consistent with the school's culture, and they should be stated positively; (5) rules must address the ethics or moral behavior desired; and (6) the rule must include the roles of primary stakeholders (e.g., students, teachers, parents, and administrators). (SM)