Get How To Make Field Notes

Creating effective field notes is crucial for documenting your field activities comprehensively. This guide will walk you through the steps to fill out the HOW TO MAKE FIELD NOTES accurately and ensure your observations are recorded systematically.

Follow the steps to fill out your field notes correctly.

1. Click the ‘Get Form’ button to obtain the form and open it in your editing tool.
2. Begin your notes with your name in the upper left-hand corner to personalize your documentation.
3. Indicate the year in the upper right-hand corner underneath your name to establish a time frame for your records.
4. In the upper left margin, write the day and month to provide specific date information for your notes.
5. Label the top margin of your journal pages with the word 'Journal' and do the same for your species account pages by including the specific name of the species.
6. For the Journal section, start each page with a heading that identifies your location, including specific site, city, county, and state. Underline this heading.
7. Document the purpose of your trip, clarifying why the observations were made.
8. Include the names of any individuals accompanying you on the trip for reference.
9. Record the time of day for each significant observation to establish a timeline.
10. Describe the exact locations visited, making it easy for someone unfamiliar with the area to utilize maps based on your accounts.
11. Note the weather conditions, elevation, topography, geology, soil types, and any vegetation observed, as well as any disturbances in the area.
12. Make sure to be accurate in your descriptions. Clearly identify guesses and remember to include your thoughts and feelings about the observations.
13. Quantify your data as much as possible to enhance the utility of your notes with precise information.
14. Utilize sketches and drawings where necessary to add visual context to your notes.
15. You may take temporary notes in a smaller field notebook and transcribe them into your permanent journal as soon as possible after your trip.
16. For Species Accounts, create a dedicated page for each species observed, providing detailed descriptions and observations regarding their characteristics and behaviors.
17. Finally, save your changes, and be sure to download, print, or share your filled form as needed.

Begin documenting your field activities online today!