A common discussion topic among geocachers is the “dreaded” DNF (Did Not Find) – when to log them, whether or not to delete the DNF log after a successful find, how to keep a current list of them, etc.
Do you think a DNF log is a sign of weakness or incompetence? Do you view it as an embarrassing indication that you might not be as good of a geocacher as you previously thought? Well, think again!
The DNF log is a very important “TOOL of the TRADE”? DNF logs are useful to the cache owner, other geocachers who come after you, and even to yourself!
Here are some key reasons to always log your DNF and why you should NOT go back and delete your DNF log, even if you subsequently find the cache...
- It helps to tell the “story” and history of the cache
- It alerts the cache owner to a possible problem with the cache
- It might indicate to another cacher that this is a difficult cache
- It can provide help in seeing patterns related to the stability of the cache
- It can assist the cache owner in possibly making adjustments to cache difficulty levels
- It helps to maintain a high quality of geocaching
Just remember, you are NOT the only person to have trouble finding a geocache. According to the Geocaching Blog, over nine million DNF logs have been posted to geocaching.com so far. If you can't find a cache, you're in very good company!
The cache you're looking for might actually be missing (at least that's what we often tell ourselves!) or it might just be a tough hide or you're having "one of those days". We've all had them. Log your DNF with confidence, knowing you're doing your part to make the game better for everyone.
Some geocachers like to keep track of their current DNF's in order to go back and "avenge" them with a found it log. Here are some tips for doing that:
- Use a bookmark list for DNFs. Remove them from the list when you go back and find them.
- Set the bookmark list up as a pocket query for those days when you feel like giving them a second shot.
- When you DNF a cache, add it to your watchlist. You’ll be able to see if other people find the cache after you, or if there are a string of DNFs. If other geocachers are posting finds, you might glean a few small clues from their logs to use on your next attempt.
So, have fun, stay safe, and log your DNFs with pride! Listen to show #385 for our discussion of DNFs.
Why not, are you to proud to admit when you’re wrong! Not me, as I’m easily lead astray! For me to claim a find is a plus, not discounting my limits, so one should post every attempt to geocaching!
Whenever I can’t find a cache I ALWAYS log a DNF. I usually go back and try to find the cache again within a few days. I have had several caches where I have logged multiple DNFs. In fact, I’ll keep logging DNFs until I either find the cache or the Cache Owner comes and checks on his or her hide. Several times I have I been the one to notify the CO that their cache is missing through my DNF logs. On the other hand, I have also visited a few caches that it just took me 3 or 4 tries to make the find. But that’s okay with me. It helps the next cacher to know that a cache might not be an easy park & grab.