This record came from the MasterFindsSurveyMay2013Dates table of the source Access database. That table contained records about the identification and description of artifacts documented by ceramicists during analysis. Using the chronotype system, the ceramicist first divided the sherds into batches.

A "batch" denotes a group of similar artifacts from a survey unit that shares the same chronotype, fabric, color, surface treatment / decoration, and vessel part to one another. A single batch, for example, could consist of four buff Late Roman 1 amphora handles. Red handles of the same shape and chronotype would be separated into their own batch as would buff rims from the same amphora chronotype. During analysis, ceramicists assigned the artifacts to batches of chronotypes that were as specific as possible. They then described, counted, and weighed each batch, recording the information on paper forms. We subsequently keyed these forms into a Microsoft Access database, and scanned and archived the paper copy at the University of North Dakota.