The effects identified here are accompanied by detailed descriptions of how it feels to experience them. These are written in an objective and consistent writing style which is based upon phenomenological observation and avoids the use of metaphor or analogy. The descriptions also strive to use language which is as simple and understandable as possible; this has been done in the hope that they will serve as a universal terminology which allows people to describe and discuss that which was previously considered ineffable.

The effects are separated into over 200 distinct components which are organised into categories based on the sense affected and their behaviour. Many of these are further broken down into levels, subcomponents, and variations in style which can occur across different substances. Detailed replications are included whenever possible to supplement the text descriptions in the form of images, audio clips, and animations.