Colombia: 1964, 1973, 1985, 1993
Kenya: 1989
Mexico: 1960, 1970, 1990, 2000
Vietnam: 1989, 1999

Colombia 1964: Persons age 5+.
Colombia 1973: Persons age 5+.
Colombia 1985: Persons age 5+.
Colombia 1993: Persons age 5+.
Kenya 1989: Persons age 6+.
Mexico 1960: Persons age 6+.
Mexico 1970: Persons age 6+.
Mexico 1990: Persons age 5+.
Mexico 2000: Persons age 5+.
Vietnam 1989: Persons age 5+.
Vietnam 1999: Persons age 5+.

LIT indicates whether or not the respondent could read and write in any language. A person is typically considered literate if they can both read and write. All other persons are illiterate, including those who can either read or write but cannot do both.

Some samples provided more specific criteria than others with respect to the level of ability that should constitute literacy. These differences are generally evident in the varying wording of the instructions to the census enumerators. Typically, the instructions appear to be aimed at distinguishing persons who have memorized how to write their signature or recognize certain words from those that can truly write and comprehend text they read.

In 1999 Vietnam, all persons with 5 or more years of schooling are automatically considered literate.

The 1964 enumerator instructions state that a literate person is one able to read and write a simple paragraph. In 1973, a literate person was one who could read, write, and comprehend text. In 1985, a literate person was one who could read, write a paragraph or a simple piece in his/her mother tongue, even though he/she did it slowly. In 1993, a literate person was one who could read and write.

The enumerator instructions state that a literate person is one who is able to read and write a simple statement.

In 1989, persons in group quarters (i.e., travelers and short questionnaire respondents) have a missing response for literacy.

The 1970 enumeration form had separate questions for ability to read and ability to write, but all combinations of responses except "reads and writes" were coded as "illiterate" in the sample data.

The 1980 and 1990 enumeration forms ask if the person was able to read and write a message.

The enumerator instructions indicated that a literate person was one who could read, write, and understand a simple sentence.

In 1999, all persons with 5 or more years of schooling are considered literate.