In archaeology a section is a view of an excavated archaeological trench or feature showing the contents of that feature in two dimensions (vertical and horizontal) and thereby illustrating its profile and stratigraphy. This cross-sectional view makes it possible to view and interpret the feature as it developed over time.
Half-sectioning is the usual method whereby one half of the feature is excavated and the remainder left in situ. Large features such as barrows or sunken buildings might be sectioned in quarters and linear features are sectioned at intervals along their lengths.
Sections are used in connection with two-dimensional plans to record archaeological sites. They are normally drawn at a scale of 1:10 or 1:20 with their height related to the site benchmark and orientation also recorded. A photographic record is also made.
