What is an engineering notebook used for?

An engineering notebook is essential for documenting the entire design process, which includes capturing ideas, sketches, calculations, and any iterations or changes made during the project. This practice is critical in engineering as it provides a detailed account of the development of a design, ensuring that all aspects are recorded systematically and can be referenced later. This documentation is important not only for accountability and intellectual property purposes, but it also aids communication within a team and with stakeholders. The notebook serves as a formal record of work, enabling engineers to track progress and justify design decisions, thus helping in the reflection and learning process.

Other options, while related to various aspects of project management and business, do not encompass the primary purpose of an engineering notebook, which focuses specifically on the technical and developmental elements of engineering design.