Historically, many paleontologic techniques have been proposed which establish biostratigraphic correlations. None of these methods have entirely attained the biostratigraphic resolution now required by exploration geologists for their refined and often subtle stratigraphic plays.

The graphic correlation technique developed by A. B. Shaw offers new precision in biostratigraphy by simultaneously utilizing the "total stratigraphic range" of several fossil groups preserved in the geologic record. Precise correlations of time-equivalent intervals of rock can be made on a local, regional, or worldwide scale.

Time-stratigraphic correlations developed by the graphic technique can be used by the exploration geologist

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to interpret lithologic correlations and stratigraphic relations, and to chronostratigraphically reconstruct the geologic history of a field or basin.

A brief explanation of the graphic method of time correlation and examples of local, regional, and interregional correlations using both surface and subsurface micropaleontologic and palynologic data generated by the authors is presented. Examples are taken from California, Wyoming, Gulf coastal plain, and Blake Plateau, offshore Florida.

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