| PREVIOUS | CONTENTS | FORWARD |
Excel lists are easy to produce and a useful check that all data is complete for the database. From the descriptive context list (Appendix 1.3) extract the columns of context number, category, parent context, basic interpretation, interpretation code, and processual code, and add a column for the sub-group number (Appendix 1.6). Save one copy sorted by context (e.g. FEX01.B.co.sg.xls) and another copy sorted by sub-group (FEX01.B.sg.co.xls).
The database provides one tank for all field, finds and sample data. At this stage stratigraphic analysis prepares the interpretative sub-group level of the phasing structure for the date ranges of pottery and other finds groups. The stratigraphic entries are divided into 'input tables' or levels of interpretation. This manual gives an example of five levels of interpretation, although this can be reduced or expanded according to local needs.
The initial cross-reference to finds and samples for all sets of field data are the site code followed by the context number. At the sub-group input table the sub-group number is added. If the context number represents a fill, the parent number of the cut has an extra reference field. The basic and processual interpretation codes (Tables 7-8) are also part of this input table.
Create a master table (see Table 17) to be used for all sub-groups containing reference fields to related work. Summarise the basic interpretation of the sub-group and state possible problems.