Sort Material Observations by the Question They Answer

Give every sample a single question

Before looking at a sample, write the question it is meant to answer: Can the layout be read under this light? Is the edge easy to inspect? Does the image show the right area? A focused question keeps the notes from turning into broad material claims.

Photograph the sample with its label and leave unknowns visible. One observation may guide the next test, but it does not establish compatibility, durability, or a finished product promise.

Keep the unanswered questions nearby

Put unanswered questions in the same record instead of filling them in from memory. Browse /updates/ for other sample-review routines.