The researchers studied how surrounding rocks behave in thin coal seams with soft roofs and floors during mining. They created a model and used computer simulations to analyze how the rocks deform and the pressure on supports near the coal wall. They found that the roof and floor can deform significantly, with the support pressure increasing close to the coal wall. Measurements from a coal mine confirmed the simulation results, showing specific distances where the roof falls and support pressure rises. The study helps understand how to manage the surrounding rock in these challenging mining conditions.