Use a Control Photo for Each New Sample Board

Photograph the starting condition

Before comparing sample marks, photograph the board or blank in its starting condition under the same light you plan to use afterward. A control photo gives a later review something concrete to compare rather than relying only on recollection.

Add a simple label for the material identity and the date. Do not turn one early observation into a material guarantee; it is a record of one test context.

Keep unknowns visible

If a sample has an unverified coating, surface variation, or prior mark, put that unknown in the record. Clear uncertainty is more useful than an overconfident caption when deciding whether another controlled test is needed.

See /updates/ for more sample documentation practices.