Differential sticking of drill pipe can be prevented by what methods?

• A. Use higher mud flow
• B. Reduce drill string contact
• C. Maintain proper mud weight
• D. Increase drill string rotation rate dramatically

Answer: (D)

Differential sticking happens when mud filtrate forms a filter cake on the borehole wall and formation pressure pushes the pipe toward that wall, causing the string to bind. Turning the drill string creates shear at the pipe–wall interface, which breaks up the mud cake and reduces the friction that holds the pipe in place. Keeping the string rotating disrupts the sticky bond and helps the pipe move freely, especially if you need to slide the pipe back out. While proper mud weight and good circulation to remove the cake are important overall, actively increasing the drill string rotation rate provides a direct, effective way to prevent differential sticking among the options listed.