Using sounding curves based upon geologic models for a survey site, the latest measurement time for central induction transient soundings can be estimated for a given transmitter moment. Detectability limits are plotted on the apparent resistivity-time plots. Sounding points at earlier times than the limit are detectable, while those at later times are not. This procedure can be used during survey design to determine if features of the sounding necessary to the resolution of the geologic problem are detectable. Field measurements have shown that the method adequately predicts the latest measurement time.