Field notes make up the basic information used in developing the descriptive legend, soil interpretations, and the manuscript of individual soil surveys. The notes are used for preparing standard definitions and descriptions of soil series and for correlating soils in the national program.
Field notes are as important as the field sheets on which accomplishments are recorded.
The best notes are those written while observations are fresh. For example, the description of a soil profile is recorded as it is examined. Information from a conversation with a farmer is best recorded during the conversation or immediately thereafter. Unless notes are recorded promptly, information may be lost. All field notes should be clearly identified.