Which of the following statements about GMDSS radio logbooks is true?

• A. Key letters or abbreviation may be used in GMDSS Radio Logbooks if their meaning is noted in the log
• B. Abbreviations are never allowed in GMDSS logs
• C. Only complete words can be used in GMDSS logs
• D. Abbreviations may be used without noting their meaning

Answer: (A)

In GMDSS radio logs, you can use abbreviations to keep entries concise, as long as you clearly note what each abbreviation means somewhere in the log. This keeps the record readable for anyone who reviews it, even if shorthand is used. A legend or a note near the first use (or at the end) explaining the abbreviations ensures that the log remains unambiguous.

This approach balances brevity with clarity. If abbreviations are used without explaining their meanings, the log could become confusing or misinterpreted. That’s why the rule isn’t about forbidding abbreviations altogether, and it isn’t about requiring only complete words. The key is to define the shorthand so readers can understand the entries.