Pocket Ref is a general-purpose pocket-sized reference book composed of various tips, tables, maps, formulas, constants and conversions, compiled by Thomas J.

[2] It contains references, tables, and instructional guides on such varied subjects as automotive repair; carpentry and construction; chemistry and physics; computers; physical, chemical, and mathematical constants; electronics; money and measurement conversions; advanced first aid; glue, solvents, paints, and finishes; hardware; mine, mill, and aggregate; plumbing; zip codes; rope, cable, and knots; steel and metals; surveying and mapping; and various other topics.

[3] In the "Shop 'til You Drop" episode, Adam Savage noted that "nearly everyone" had asked him about the little black book.

[5] Although the Pocket Ref is printed on very thin paper, its page count is still limited by the publisher's desire for it to fit in an average shirt pocket, so a more comprehensive work, at 1280 pages, DeskRef, has been published.

Young, and Pocket Partner "a comprehensive collection of vital information for law enforcement personnel" by Dennis Evers.