How+to+Write+a+Lab+Report

= = =Writing a Lab Report= __Title (underlined and on the top center of the page)__

__Problem Statement::__


 * A summary of the main concepts that you will learn about while carrying out the experiment.
 * The question to be answered during the lab.

__Hypothesis:__


 * Write down your prediction as to how the independent variable will affect the dependent variable using an “if” and “then” statement.
 * If (state the independent variable) is (choose an action), then (state the dependent variable) will (choose an action).
 * Example: If a plant receives fertilizer [having fertilizer is the independent variable], then it will grow to be bigger than a plant that does not receive fertilizer [plant size is the dependent variable].
 * Do not guess but try to arrive at the hypothesis logically and, if appropriate, with a calculation.

__Materials:__


 * Record precise details of all equipment used.
 * Example: 10 test tube
 * Record precise details of any chemicals used.
 * Example: 5 g of copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate CuSO45H2O(s)

__Procedure:__


 * DO NOT copy the procedures from the lab manual or handout.
 * Summarize the procedures; be sure to include critical steps.
 * Give accurate and concise details about the apparatus and materials used.
 * Your goal is to write a “recipe” that other scientists can use to recreate your lab without your help.

__Results:__


 * Ensure that all data and observations are recorded.
 * Present your results clearly using tables and/ or graphs.
 * Label all tables and graphs.
 * If using a graph, make sure that the graph has a title, both axis are labeled clearly, and that the correct scale is chosen.
 * Pay attention to significant figures and make sure that all units are stated.
 * Use a ruler, color and graph paper.

__Conclusion:__


 * First paragraph:

- What was being investigated? Describe the problem. - Restate your hypothesis. - According to your data was the hypothesis supported or rejected? - Compare your actual results to the expected results.


 * Middle paragraphs:

- How did your findings compare with other researchers? (compare your results to other students’ results in the class) - Elaborate on the different pieces of information that were collected as data that either support or did not support the hypothesis. - What were the major findings? - Answer any remaining questions given in the lab report.


 * Last Paragraph:

- State any errors that you may have encountered. - What possible explanations can you offer for your findings? - What recommendations do you have for further study and for improving the experiment? - Suggest how the method chosen could be improved to obtain more accurate and reliable results. - What are some possible applications of the experiment? (How can this experiment or the findings of this experiment be used in the real world for the benefit of society?)