At first, scan the rocks looking for color changes. Sometimes the contrast between the color of the fossil and the color of the rock is striking, making fossils easy to find. In many instances, however, the color changes may be subtle and the fossils may be the same color as the rock. This is where shape and pattern recognition comes into play. Two common shapes, circles and ovals, are relatively easy to distinguish in layered bedrock.
Repetitive lines are also prime targets.
You will find that once your eyes become accustomed to identifying color differences and different shapes and patterns, fossils become easier to find. Although fossils can be collected without the use of tools, the more experienced fossil collector will want to bring a hammer of some sort. The one tool of choice is a hammer with a chisel edge. It allows one to both split and crack rocks. A hammer used in combination with a hand-held chisel also works well.