How do revision history and change log differ in an SOP?

• A. They are the same.
• B. Revision history records substantive changes by version; change log notes minor edits or administrative updates.
• C. Revision history tracks formatting only.
• D. Change log tracks regulatory approvals.

Answer: (B)

Revision history captures substantive changes by version. Each time the SOP is revised, a new version is created with a revision number or date, who approved it, and a concise description of what actually changed in the steps, responsibilities, or requirements. This provides a traceable record of how the procedure evolved and is essential for compliance and quality control.

The change log, on the other hand, records minor edits or administrative updates such as formatting tweaks, typos, or small wording clarifications. It shows that updates occurred without altering how the process works, helping users see that changes were made even when the content stays functionally the same.

So, you’d log major, substantive updates in the revision history and note small, non-substantive edits in the change log. The other options don’t fit because revision history isn’t limited to formatting, and the change log isn’t primarily about regulatory approvals.