The specialist can advise on whether or not collecting a systematic sample is warranted and how best to do it. Close monitoring of the amounts and types of materials found as fieldwork progresses is essential in making a decision. Unfortunately, there are currently no professional standards to aid archeologists in determining correct sample sizes. A strict sampling strategy should be followed for these materials in order to collect only enough samples as are actually needed to meet project goals. Processing non-cultural materials prior to packing a collection for submittal to a repository is another way to limit the volume of these materials in the collection.
Processing can include running soils through flotation tanks.
It is important to keep sampling procedures consistent and well documented throughout a project, both in the field and the lab. Every effort should be made to record such information on long-lived media, such as archival quality paper. Unexpected discoveries at the site may necessitate changes in the collecting strategy and sampling plan. When changes are made they should be well documented and continue to support the research goals of the project.