Understand the 5 critical ingredients of any petroleum accumulation. Understand to a basic level how these 5 criteria are risked in an economicic evaluation of any proposed well.  Understand the dynamics and interconnectivity of a petroleum system.

Understand the variety of conventional and non-conventional resource plays. Understand some of the technologies required to produce these resources.

Investigate and present to peers the hydrocarbon system of a significant petroleum field or play.

Understand sedimentary basin types as dictated by their tectonic setting. Under, to a basic level, the hydrocarbon potential of these various basins and the variables that determine their potential or lack of potential.  Understand the importance of looking for the exception to the rule.