The functions of cranial nerves, conduits for sensory information to enter and motor information to exit the brain, and the common complaints arising from cranial nerve injuries are described. The modified anatomical arrangement of sensory and motor territories in the brainstem provides a framework for understanding the organization of the cranial nerve nuclei. A thorough grounding in the anatomy of cranial nerves and cranial nerve nuclei allows the student to deduce whether a given set of symptoms arises from a central or peripheral lesion. The near triad, pupillary light reflex, and Bell’s palsy are particularly emphasized. The contributions of the six extraocular muscles to controlling eye position and to potential diplopia are described along with the consequences of oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerve dysfunction. The potential for lesions of facial, glossopharyngeal, vagus, and hypoglossal nerves to yield dysphagia and dysarthria are outlined.