> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.geosamples.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.geosamples.org/for-researchers/register-samples/pre-register-before-fieldwork.md).

# Pre-registration Before Fieldwork

Users who require IGSNs before going to the field.

## **Preregistration: Registering IGSNs Prior to Sample Collection**

It is possible to pre-register samples and obtain IGSNs before collecting samples in the field. This allows for samples to have corresponding IGSNs immediately upon collection.

### To Preregister Samples

1. Follow the tutorial for [Batch Registrations](/for-researchers/register-samples/batch-registration.md).
2. During batch upload you have the option to 'Save all samples as draft'. This option allows you the create "draft IGSNs" that you can update and submit once you are ready. \
   &#x20;

   <figure><img src="https://3999429579-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ftd44sRg81erEWSwelkyG%2Fuploads%2FLDDHnLRhXWDyT3Y2t2bJ%2FScreenshot%202026-09-23%20at%205.43.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=31fa1365-b3eb-49af-81ea-b7936b701af7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. [Print labels](/for-researchers/manage-samples/print-labels-and-qr-codes.md) that contain the IGSNs to label samples as they are collected.&#x20;
4. After collection, update the samples metadata via the [Batch Update Method](/for-researchers/manage-samples/update-sample-metadata.md#batch-bulk-sample-update).

If you register more IGSNs than samples you collect in the field, you should save these IGSNs for your next field session.

### **Registering Samples After Collection**

After you have collected samples in the field, you can register your samples’ metadata in SESAR using one of our registration methods. We recommend that you register your samples with IGSNs before processing and analyzing the samples and as close to the time of collection as possible. For registrations, please see our guide on individual and batch registration.&#x20;

### **Updating Sample Metadata**

It is possible you will want to add or update sample metadata after registering them in SESAR (e.g., adding a publication DOI or updating classification). To update or add new metadata, use the '[Batch Update Method](/for-researchers/manage-samples/update-sample-metadata.md#batch-bulk-sample-update)'.

You have the ability to add up to 10 related resources to a sample’s metadata profile. For more information on adding related resources see the guide on '[Data and Outputs](/for-researchers/register-samples/data-and-outputs.md)'.&#x20;


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