Abstract A simplified approach to electromagnetic depth sounding in the variable coil separation mode is described. The method was developed by scale model studies and consideration of the geometry of the dipole magnetic field. Its use is limited to nonmagnetic, highly conductive plane structures or nonmagnetic thin sheets of moderate to high conductivity. Field tests indicate the method to be capable of providing good depth estimates over quite steeply dipping structures. The effect of conductivity anisotropy proved to be readily recognizable in the field tests.