If you are studying a Science or Engineering unit, it is likely you will be required to write a formal laboratory (lab) report. The aim is to report on what you did, what you learned from the experiment and why the findings are important.
The structure of lab reports can vary depending on the type of lab task or scientific research investigation. However, they all usually follow a similar basic structure which includes:
Ensure you check with you lecturer or tutor about the specific requirements they have for the lab report
Graphics such as tables and diagrams are common in lab reports as they help to summarise detailed information. Diagrams and images are referred to as Figures. These are numbered and given a title below the figure. Example:
Tables are labelled in the top right hand corner above the table. Example:
Table 7.2 Control and stimulated secretion rates from cricket Malpighian tubules.1
|
Secretion rate (nL h-1)2 |
|
|
Control |
Stimulated |
Whole tubule |
50.1 ±3.1 |
98.6 ±8.7 |
Distal segment |
15.1 ±2.5 |
17.5 ±3.7 |
1 Adapted from Marshall et al. (1993) J Exp Biol 177, 1-22.
2 Values are means ± standard error of 13 observations.
The language used in lab reports is clear, concise and objective. Because of the nature of these reports, it is important to use discipline specific terminology precisely and that the information is accurate. Remember that a major purpose of lab reports is that the experiment can be replicated.
Label the following excerpts from a lab report by choosing the correct heading from the following list:
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/laboratory-scientists-research-385349/