Writing a Lab Report: Tips, Advice & Experiences

[zanazzi78]

As part of my Degree I had been told I need to produce a Lab report!

I have a small problem with this! I don’t know how to write one. I have never read a Lab report, so I am unsure as to the format/layout and content of one.

What I’m asking is for advise on how to set out a report, things i should try to include and things I can leave out, general dos and don’ts.

I’ve posted this in GD instead of the homework section as i would rather have an open discussion on the style of the report.

As Educators/students and professionals I am sure you have seen some good and bad reports, what has stood out as memorable and why?

 

[hypatia]

I always do the following
Title page
Purpose {not procedural}
Background, define terms,provide samples, present diagrams and elaborate upon their meaning.
Procedure...basicaly step by step, often broken down into parts.
Data..clearly labled graphs, listing of input /output data and observations.
Conclusions
Sources

 

[brewnog]

I like to include:

Title Page
Abstract
Introduction
Nomenclature
Discussion of procedure, - methods, techniques, equipment
Presentation of results
Discussion of results
Conclusions
References
Appendices

That kind of thing. Obviously omit whatever isn't relevant.