Well Log Interpretation for Geologists and Geophysicists
| 26 – 30 Jan. 2026, Dubai | 27 – 31 July 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Well log interpretation is the essential skill of deciphering the physical measurements taken within a borehole to characterize the geological and petrophysical properties of the subsurface. This course provides geologists and geophysicists with a comprehensive understanding of how to translate raw wireline and LWD (Logging While Drilling) data into meaningful geological information such as lithology, porosity, and fluid saturation. By integrating various log types, participants can build a detailed vertical profile of the formation, which is critical for reservoir mapping and seismic calibration.
The scope of this course covers the fundamental physics of the most common logging tools, including Gamma Ray, Resistivity, Neutron-Density, and Sonic logs. Participants will learn how to perform a "quick-look" interpretation to identify reservoir intervals and distinguish between hydrocarbons and water. The curriculum emphasizes the geological application of logs, such as identifying depositional environments through parasequence stacking patterns and recognizing structural features through dipmeter and image log analysis.
Coverage includes the practical calculation of shale volume, effective porosity, and water saturation using industry-standard equations like Archie's law. The course teaches participants how to quality control log data, recognize borehole environmental effects, and integrate log results with core data and seismic sections. Mastering well log interpretation is fundamental for any geoscientist, as it provides the high-resolution "ground truth" necessary to validate broader exploration and development models.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Identify the primary logging tools and the physical properties they measure.
- Perform a systematic quality control (QC) of wireline and LWD data.
- Interpret Gamma Ray and SP logs to identify lithology and bed boundaries.
- Calculate Shale Volume using various linear and non-linear indicators.
- Determine total and effective porosity from Density, Neutron, and Sonic logs.
- Analyze Resistivity logs to differentiate between movable and residual fluids.
- Apply Archie's Equation to estimate water saturation.
- Utilize the Pickett Plot for graphical determination of water resistivity.
- Identify depositional environments using log-derived facies and stacking patterns.
- Interpret Dipmeter and Borehole Image logs for structural and sedimentological insights.
- Reconcile well log observations with core analysis and cuttings descriptions.
- Calibrate seismic horizons using log-derived synthetic seismograms.
- Formulate a comprehensive petrophysical report for a reservoir interval.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Geologists, Geophysicists, Junior Petrophysicists, and Petroleum Engineers who need to interpret borehole data for geological modeling.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

