What are the best strategies for completing the "A Test of Faith" dinosaur bone side mission?

The ''A Test of Faith'' side mission in Red Dead Redemption 2 tasks players with finding and collecting 30 dinosaur bone fragments scattered across the game world. This mission is initiated by speaking to Deborah MacGuiness, a paleontologist, near the train tracks north of Flatneck Station. She provides a map with vague hints about the locations of the bones, but players must rely on exploration and environmental clues to find them all.\n\nTo begin, ensure you have a reliable horse, a good supply of provisions, and a weapon for self-defense, as some bone locations are in dangerous areas. The mission does not have a time limit, so you can take your time exploring. Use the in-game map to mark potential locations and plan your route efficiently. The bones are often found in remote or hard-to-reach areas, so be prepared for some challenging terrain.\n\nOne effective strategy is to use the internet or a guide to pinpoint the exact locations of all 30 bones. While this may feel like cheating, it saves a significant amount of time and frustration. If you prefer to find them organically, pay close attention to the environment. Bones are often near distinctive landmarks, such as rock formations, caves, or unique trees. Use your binoculars to scan the area from a distance, as bones can blend into the terrain.\n\nSome bones are located in areas with hostile wildlife or enemies. For example, one bone is near the cougar spawn point in Roanoke Ridge. Approach these areas cautiously, and consider using Dead Eye to quickly eliminate threats. Additionally, some bones are in areas with steep cliffs or deep water. Use your horse to navigate tricky terrain, and swim carefully to avoid drowning.\n\nOnce you have collected all 30 bones, return to Deborah MacGuiness to complete the mission. She will reward you with a unique dinosaur bone knife and a significant amount of money. This mission also contributes to 100% completion, making it a worthwhile endeavor for completionists.\n\nPractical tips for this mission include keeping a checklist of the bones you have found to avoid revisiting locations. Use the in-game journal to track your progress, and consider using a physical map or online guide for reference. Finally, take breaks between searches to avoid burnout, as this mission can be time-consuming but ultimately rewarding.