Game clock operator note taking...

[Official_21]

I have been thinking about bringing a notebook to games that I work as a game clock operator. One of the things that was suggested I take notes on is when the game clock is stopped for a timeout/penalty.

Are there any other suggestions on what notes I should take during a game on the GC?

Just trying to develop a good habit that will help me and the on field officials, should issues arise with the game clock through no fault of mine 

[Magician]

I would note the time after every score and change of possession. On scores it can be helpful if the clock accidentally starts during the subsequent kickoff and it shouldn't.

[ElvisLives]

The very BEST practice would be to note the time EVERY time it is stopped.  Let's say the R re-starts the clock incorrectly, but then realizes it, and wants to restore the clock to the correct time, you will know what that was.  Of course, communication will be an issue, but, you will know the correct time, if needed.

[JasonTX]

Another situation that you may want to talk to the crew about are the times where the clock is stopped and Team A false starts.  I know in my games that sometimes the clock operator will inadvertently start the clock before realizing that we had the false start.  1 or 2 seconds run off.  In most situations when time isn't critical and without a field mic we usually just leave it alone because it would take a couple minutes to get the thing reset.  With you being on top of things, with the blessings of the crew on the field, you could just reset it.

[AlUpstateNY]

I have been thinking about bringing a notebook to games that I work as a game clock operator. One of the things that was suggested I take notes on is when the game clock is stopped for a timeout/penalty.
Are there any other suggestions on what notes I should take during a game on the GC?
Just trying to develop a good habit that will help me and the on field officials, should issues arise with the game clock through no fault of mine 

Written notes can indeed be helpful, I try and keep it simple and record the game time of each T/O.
I note kickoff choices
I keep track of downs (with a Ball/Strike counter)
I note Game time of each score, and number of points, for each team
If a player goes down (and is taken off the field) I try and get his personal details, and note the play situation (for Game Reports)
I run a back-up stop watch (adjusting and coordinating it keeps me "in the game") & every now and then comes in really handy.

[Official_21]

Thanks for the tips. Feel a lot more confident on what notes to take now when I am running the game clock...now will just have to get into the habit of actually doing it 

[Official_21]

Another situation that you may want to talk to the crew about are the times where the clock is stopped and Team A false starts.  I know in my games that sometimes the clock operator will inadvertently start the clock before realizing that we had the false start.  1 or 2 seconds run off.  In most situations when time isn't critical and without a field mic we usually just leave it alone because it would take a couple minutes to get the thing reset.  With you being on top of things, with the blessings of the crew on the field, you could just reset it.

That is a very vaild point and one that I never thought of. I will make sure to bring this up with the crew I am working with when I am scheduled on the game clock in the future.

[Joe Stack]

Whenever I work the clock, I always back up the score and timeouts in writing. That way if the scoreboard malfunctions, I have everything we need. I monitor the time pretty closely so we're within a minute or so anyway.

[AlUpstateNY]

Whenever I work the clock, I always back up the score and timeouts in writing. That way if the scoreboard malfunctions, I have everything we need. I monitor the time pretty closely so we're within a minute or so anyway.

Great idea, simple & helps keeps you in the game.  One of the greatest changes of all time was the introduction of black uniform pants, but they are simply NOT as visible as white knickers, ESPECIALLY in front of Team Box sideline areas making important signals, sometimes, difficult to pick up (Incomplete pass, T/O & wind on BOTH sideline areas on inbounds 1st downs, T/O signals).  Consistently repeating those signals by "inside" officials (U, R and/or BJ) can be very helpful, and effective.