Increasing the quality of seismic interpretation

Geologic models are based on the interpretation of spatially sparse and limited resolution data sets. Nonunique interpretations often exist, resulting in commercial, safety, and environmental risks. We surveyed 444 experienced geoscientists to assess the validity of their interpretations of a seismic section for which multiple concepts honor the data. The most statistically influential factor in improving interpretation was writing about geologic time. A randomized controlled trial identified for the first time a significant causal link between being explicitly requested to describe the temporal geologic evolution of an interpretation and increased interpretation quality. These results have important implications for interpreting geologic data and communicating uncertainty in models.