30 inches seems a bit excessive, yeah. Unless it's incredibly versatile, I can only see writing half that before you get to the point where you're crossing out, "It's a bloody plant, what more do you want me to say?" and hoping the prof doesn't spot it.

Well, you've got a pretty level head and you're a decent bloke. You don't always have to be a hot-headed maniac to have people follow you. Besides, if you ask me, really good leaders know how to take directions - not just give them out.