824 Subsurface Geologic Methods 



"Pertinent" data are data essential to your conclusions and recommenda- 

 tions. "Incidental" data are information that is, or may be, of interest 

 to those who are to investigate further, or to a reader who seeks more 

 comprehensive information. 



Reread the composition, one color at a time. Try to assume that you 

 have never heard of the problem involved. Ask yourself, "Would I under- 

 stand it?" Let your judgment be your guide on deletions or additions. 



Assemble the composition in semi-final form, as indicated by the 

 colored underlinings. At all times keep in mind first the problem, and 

 second the data pertinent to the solution of the problem. 



Write the final draft and use, of course, suitable headings and intro- 

 ductory summaries so that the reader will be properly oriented at all 

 times. The following suggestions for the writing of the final draft are 

 paramount. 



1. State the problem as you have diagnosed it. 



2. Use maps and diagrams that are well titled, scaled, and oriented 

 in preference to long-winded descriptions. 



3. State conclusions and recommendations. If there are qualifying, 

 or unknown and unpredictable factors to the conclusions, tabulate 

 such factors immediately below the conclusions. 



4. Tabulate or discuss the pertinent evidence used to formulate con- 

 clusions and recommendations. For example, point out parallel 

 situations in your experience where the drawing of similar con- 

 clusions was to the advantage of your client. Also point out dif- 

 ferences in such situations. 



5. Compact into a sort of epilogue all loosely relevant data: history, 

 scenery, weather and road conditions, temperature, personnel con- 

 tacts, labor troubles, and all other such trivia for the use of those 

 who want minutely detailed information. But do not allow trivia 

 to obscure your work and opinion. 



Summary 



The function of a professional geologist is to solve a problem. When 

 called upon by industry, you must diagnose, investigate, and report. Your 

 professional integrity and standing will grow in proportion to the compe- 

 tency of your diagnosis, the adequacy and accuracy of your recorded 

 data, and the soundness of your conclusions and recommendations. 



If you are sure, say so. If subsequent evidence proves you to be 

 wrong, you are still free from guilt, in that your conclusions were honest 

 in the light of the facts available at the time the conclusions were made. 

 If you do not know, or are not sure, say so. Many a banker, doctor, 

 lawyer, editor, and prelate has suffered oblivion because he was afraid 

 to admit he did not know the answer. If you do not know the answer, 

 say so. Honesty has the curious property of retaining respect under all 

 circumstances. 



Remember, an objective report is the tangible presentation of your 



