How do I write a lab report for science class?

Question

How do I write a lab report for science class?

Answer 1

Nearly every science class with a lab component will have the requirement for students to write laboratory reports. 

These are not assigned to keep students busy. In fact, the process of writing lab reports will be something that nearly every scientist (in every field) will use constantly throughout their academic and professional field.

Lab reports generally follow the same process and have nearly the same content categories. Variations usually occur due to teacher/professor requirements, or specific scientific fields. 

Guidance can usually be found in the form of a set of instructions and/or a grading rubric from your teacher/professor. In the case of professional laboratories, there is usually a set of instructions detailing reporting requirements.

The general format outline usually is as follows:

I. Title

II. Abstract

III. Introduction

IV. Methods / Procedure

a)      Materials

b)     Diagram of Lab Setup

c)      Steps Taken

V. Results / Data

a)      Data Tables

b)     Graphs

c)      Explanations

VI. Discussion / Analysis

VII. Conclusions

References

Appendices

For additional help with writing lab reports, and an in-depth tutorial, please feel free to contact me at Wyzant and schedule a tutoring session.

And remember “You can do this!”

Sincerely

Ron P.