A Quick Reference for Writing Lab Reports
by R. Irish, Language Across the Curriculum, University of Toronto

Abstract summarizes the report to help a reader decide if he/she needs to read the rest.

Must have: 
1. Purpose of the experiment
2. Key result(s)
3. Major point of discussion
4. Major conclusion
 		 May include:
1. Brief method
2. Brief theory		 Restrictions:
ONE page
200 words MAX.
Introduction prepares the reader to understand the whole experiment.
Must Have:
1. Clearly stated purpose of the experiment
2. Important background and/or theory
 		 May include:
1. Description of specialized equipment
2. Justification of experiment's importance
Methods & Materials can be lists or even "refer to lab manual" where appropriate. 

Procedure describes ACTUAL process, especially changes from planned method.

Results are usually dominated by graphics, but 

  • number and title tables and graphs correctly and clearly
  • draw attention to key points in tables or graphs with a sentence
  • provide sample calculation only
  • state key result in sentence form

Discussion includes two aspects: 

  1.  Analysis = explanation of what can be clearly understood from results
  2. Interpretation = logical deductions from analysis, explanations of ambiguities.

Conclusion states what is known as a result of the experiment.

Must do: 
1. State what's known 
2. Justify that statement		 May do: 
3. State significance of findings
4. Suggest further research

For more detailed explanations refer to the Lab Report webpage.