I could almost see the gears turning as I read this post. After a little Googling it was found that there are three stages; Exploratory, Development, and Production. All are different stages. In Guide 7 Exploratory cannot show reserves, while Development must show reserves.
I think you figured this out and tried to make exploratory and Development stage the same thing and back peddled with:
The stage page exploration is development stage.
Is hard for me to tell though. The description of Development stage is spot on.
Hey, I realize you didn't write Guide 7 and I didn't write Guide 7. Realistically, the darn thing is over thirty years old and in need of an overhaul. There are steps being taken to change this.
This is from October. The wheels of the Federal Government turn really slowly. This means the time is right - right now - to input public opinion.
Think of it. You could literally influence the way a new Guide 7 is written and not have to again creatively write your way out of a hole on some old form the SEC has just never got around to updating.
With your posting skills the word could get out there and that's a big part of it. I'd help with the organization and know whose ears to tug. Let me know...