What you must take into account when doing the pendulum

 1) Some kinds of jewellery like metal bracelets, rings, quartz watches, tend to interfere with the replies. It's best to take them off.

 2) Hold your hands and forearms under cold running water for a few moments. This removes undesirable foreign fluids.

 3) It is always easier to use the pendulum for the benefit of other people rather than yourself. You will see why presently.

 4) ILLNESS: using your pendulum when you are feeling distinctly unwell or have an infection is likely to reduce receptivity and you will probably get deceptive results.

 5) FOOD: don't start any dowsing investigations after a very heavy meal, or one washed down with lots to drink. Alcohol and pendulums do not mix.

6) STATE OF MIND: a peaceful environment and a calm mind will improve the quality of your results.

7) FAVOURABLE TIMING: it's best to do your investigations in the morning just after you wake up. Then your mind will be clear and your mental focus will be better. (However this isn't a really hard and fast rule, because much also depends on your level of training and your powers of concentration).

8) UNFAVOURABLE Climatic Conditions: for outdoor investigations, it's best to avoid unsettled weather. Before a storm, when the atmosphere is saturated with positive ions, dowsing perceptions tend to be less efficient.

9) FAVOURABLE Climatic Conditions: dowsing sensitivity is greatly improved during the 3 hours immediately after a storm.