First impressions are valuable evidence about a moment, but they may reflect weather, timing, access or the observer’s expectations. Good notes preserve the impression without universalizing it.
Why this matters
Label what you saw and when, then seek additional evidence before making broad claims. Keep contradictions that improve the final story.
Make the plan usable
Separate direct observation, attributed information and interpretation while details are fresh. Record the details that would be difficult to recover during a delay, and leave enough margin to change the plan when the evidence changes.
Questions worth answering
- What did you observe?
- Who said it?
- What needs verification?
- Which detail locates the reader?
Verify before travel
Schedules, access, prices, policies and conditions can change. Check current official information and confirm any detail that would determine whether the trip works.
