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Excavation techniques

Techniques include topographic survey, environmental processing, scientific coring and artefact handling. Learn more about the skills needed.
Excavation Techniques
© University of Reading

As you have seen from our previous Step, we listed some of the key roles within the Field School. But what skills can you gain from working and learning on an excavation site? See our comprehensive guide to the tasks involved and the skills you take out of each area.

Excavation specific skills

Skills gained in the Finds Hut

Skills gained in the Science Hut

Skills gained in the Computer Hut

Skills gained in the Visitors’ Hut

Other on-site skills

Here are our top tips for you to remember:

  1. Excavation is a process: each task must be done in a set order

  2. The three most important skills for an archaeologist are a positive attitude, a tolerance for the weather and the ability to work as part of a team.

  3. Excavation is not all digging.

© University of Reading
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Archaeology: From Dig to Lab and Beyond

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