The elements of mineral exploration are briefly reviewed, including the most essential ingredients for successful exploration: people, money and time. Brief reference is also made by way of introduction to the markets for minerals.

The critical factor of confidence is examined against this background. Three exploration case histories are described to illustrate how, success may depend:

1. on the confidence of a Board;

2. on confidence in an exploration team; and

3. on mutual confidence between scientist and field crews.

The development of confidence at all levels in the exploration organization is then discussed.