Guidelines for Writing a Lab Report

Science Lab Report Format

Title

(the title should relate to what the lab is about)

Purpose: Briefly introduce what the lab is about and why you are doing it.

-example: The purpose of today’s lab is to learn which color light produces greater plant growth.

Background: Provide some background knowledge.

Hypothesis: Write a prediction of what you think will happen if you follow the lab procedure. (If…then…..because…..statement)

Materials: List the materials you will use in the lab.

-example: red light, blue light

Procedure: Write out a detailed, numbered list of steps for the lab in the correct order.

Data: This section includes any data that was collected and is usually shown using tables and graphs. Be sure all tables and graphs are titled and labeled appropriately.

Analysis: This section is in paragraph format. Analyze data found in tables and graphs in detail. Provides a clear picture of what was discovered in the lab.

Conclusion: This section is in paragraph format. Summarize what was found out in the lab based on data and analysis, being sure to include the following:

1. Restate your hypothesis. Was your hypothesis supported (was it correct)? Why or why not?

2. Reflect on what you learned from doing this lab.

3. List and discuss any possible forms of experimental error and/or what could be done to further your knowledge gained from this lab in the future.

Post-Lab Questions: Provide answers to any post-lab questions using clear and precise answers. Thoughts and ideas should be complete.