PATH

TO AN

IMPACTFUL LAB
REPORT
“Your Pathway to Proficient Lab Report Writing”
 Properties of Materials Laboratory
Department of Science for Technology
Faculty of Technology
University of Sri Jayewardenepura

0
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
Preparation Team,

Mr. Ashen Deemantha Liyanage

Ms. Ishini Sooriyabandara
 © Department of Science for Technology,
University of Sri Jayewardenepura,
Dec 2023.

1
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
1. Purpose of an Effective Lab Report

A scientific lab report is a detailed and structured document that summarizes the
processes, methods, results, and conclusions of a scientific experiment or investigation. The
primary purpose of a lab report is to communicate the findings of a study in a clear and
standardized format, allowing others to understand and replicate the experiment. Lab reports
are commonly used in academic and professional settings, and they serve several important
purposes:

Communication of Findings:

Lab reports provide a systematic and organized way for scientists to communicate
their research findings. By documenting each step of the experiment, from the initial
hypothesis to the final results, researchers can convey their work to others in a clear and
reproducible manner.

Documentation and Reproducibility:

Lab reports serve as a comprehensive record of the experimental process. This

documentation is essential for reproducibility, as other scientists should be able to replicate
the experiment based on the information provided in the report. Reproducibility is a
fundamental aspect of scientific research and helps validate the reliability of results.

Quality Control:

Lab reports play a crucial role in quality control within the scientific community.
Peers, instructors, and researchers can review the report to assess the validity of the
experimental design, the accuracy of the methods, and the reliability of the results. This
process helps maintain the standards of scientific inquiry.

Critical Thinking and Analysis:

Writing a lab report requires careful analysis and interpretation of data. Scientists must
critically evaluate their results and draw meaningful conclusions. This process of reflection
enhances the researcher's understanding of the experiment and contributes to the overall
development of scientific thinking.

Educational Tool:

Lab reports are often assigned as part of academic coursework, serving as an

educational tool to teach students essential skills in scientific research, experimentation, and
communication. Writing reports helps students develop a deeper understanding of the
scientific method and how to present their findings effectively.

Contribution to Scientific Knowledge:

Lab reports contribute to the body of scientific knowledge by disseminating new

findings and insights. When published, these reports become part of the scientific literature,
allowing other researchers to build upon the work and advance the field.

2
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
In summary, the purpose of a scientific lab report is to communicate, document, and
validate the results of an experiment. By adhering to a standardized format and including key
elements such as the hypothesis, methods, results, and conclusions, lab reports play a vital
role in the progress and integrity of scientific research.

2.
 Main Parts of a Lab Report

I. Cover Page
II. Experiment
III. Experiment No
IV. Objectives
V. Introduction and Theory
VI. Materials and Instruments
VII. Procedure
VIII. Observations
IX. Calculation
X. Discussion
XI. Conclusion
XII. References
XIII. Appendix

The division of a lab report into distinct sections, such as introduction, materials and
methods, results, and discussion, serves the critical function of systematically organizing
information: the introduction sets the context and purpose, the materials and methods describe
the experimental procedures, results present data and observations, and the discussion
interprets findings, fostering clarity, replicability, and rigorous analysis in scientific
communication, ultimately contributing to the advancement and transparency of scientific
knowledge.

3
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
3. Writing Each Lab Report Section with Impact

• Pages of the report: Format the report with A4-sized pages, applying a 0.5-inch border
to the top, bottom, and outer edges, and a 1-inch border from the binding side. Ensure
the first page is in color as specified in the practical requirements, serving as the cover,
while all subsequent pages should be in white.
 4
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
I. Cover page: Create a visually appealing cover page for the lab report using the given
template and colors. Include the title of the report, your name, the course or lab
section, the instructor's name, and the date of submission. Adhere to any additional
requirements or information specified by your institution.
 II. Experiment: State the name of the experiment.

III. Experiment No: State the number of the experiment.

5
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
IV. Objectives: Clearly state the objectives of the experiment at the beginning of the report.
Outline what you aim to achieve through the experiment, including specific
measurements, observations, or investigations. Be concise and provide a clear
understanding of the purpose and goals of the study.

V.
 Introduction and Theory: In the introduction section, provide background
information about the experiment. Explain relevant scientific concepts, theories, or
previous research related to the experiment's topic. State the objective or hypothesis of
the experiment and explain its significance. Connect the experiment to broader
scientific knowledge and provide context for the study.

VI. Materials and Instruments: The materials, equipment, and reagents used in the
experiment were listed. Specific details such as quantities, brand names, or specific
model numbers, if relevant, were included. A comprehensive and accurate list of items
necessary for conducting the experiment was provided.

VII. Procedure: The experimental procedure was described in a step-by-step format using the
passive past tense. The chronological order of the steps was clearly outlined, and
detailed instructions were given for each. Measurements, settings, or any
modifications made to standard procedures were specified. The procedure was written
in a clear and concise manner, allowing others to replicate the experiment accurately.

VIII. Observations: Record detailed observations made during the experiment. Include
qualitative and quantitative data, noting any changes, reactions, or patterns observed.
Present the observations in a clear and organized manner, making them easily
understandable.

IX. Calculation: If applicable, include calculations in a separate section. Show the equations
used, the data input, and the step-by-step calculations. If there are graphs associated
with the calculations, attach them to the corresponding section. Clearly explain the
purpose and significance of the calculations in relation to the experiment.

X. Discussion: Engage in a comprehensive discussion of the results. Analyze and interpret

the data, identifying patterns, trends, or relationships observed. Address any
discrepancies, errors, or limitations of the experiment. Suggest potential solutions for
further development of the experiment. Compare the findings with theoretical
expectations or published data when applicable. Discuss the implications of the results
and their significance in relation to the objective. Support your statements with
relevant scientific principles or theories. State the significance of the experiment to
the real world applications.

6
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
XI. Conclusion: Summarize the major findings of the experiment. State whether the results
fulfill or refute the objectives of the experiment.

XII.
 References: Include a list of all external sources of information cited in the report,
such as textbooks and research papers. Follow a consistent citation style (e.g., APA,
MLA) as specified by your instructor. Provide complete and accurate references to
acknowledge the sources of information used in your study.

XIII. Appendix: In the appendix, the lab data sheet, containing the raw data collected during
the experiment, was included. The data sheet was properly labeled and organized,
making it easy to navigate and understand. The appendix solely comprised the data
sheet and any other relevant supplementary materials directly related to the lab report.

4. Drawing an Effective Graph: A Step-by-Step Guide:

• Select the appropriate type of graph based on your data: Choose between bar graphs, line
graphs, scatter plots, or pie charts, depending on the nature of your data and the
relationship you want to visualize.
• Determine the variables and label the axes: Identify the variables to be plotted on the x-axis
(horizontal) and y-axis (vertical). Clearly label each axis with the variable name and unit
of measurement to provide context.
• Choose a suitable scale: Utilize graph sheets with a 1mm range to allow for accurate and
precise plotting. Divide each axis into equal intervals, aligning with the 1mm gridlines,
and label the tick marks accordingly to ensure a consistent and visually appealing graph.
• Plot the data points accurately: Use a pencil or fine-tipped pen to mark each data point
precisely on the graph paper, aligning it with the corresponding x and y values. Take care
to maintain consistency and accuracy within the 1mm grid.
• Represent uncertainties or errors: If your data includes uncertainties or errors, consider
using error bars to illustrate the range of values or standard deviations associated with
each data point. Ensure that the error bars are appropriately aligned with the data points
on the graph paper.
• Connect data points if appropriate: Depending on the graph type, connect the data points
with a line or curve to depict trends or relationships. Ensure that the lines or curves align
with the 1mm gridlines and accurately represent the underlying data.
• Provide a clear and descriptive title: Give the graph a concise and informative title that
summarizes the relationship or trend being displayed. The title should be easy to read and
understand, providing clarity about the purpose of the graph.
• Include a legend if necessary: If you are plotting multiple datasets on the same graph,
include a legend that explains the meaning of each symbol or line used. Ensure that the
legend is legible and properly placed within the graph.

7
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
• Add relevant additional elements: Include captions or annotations to highlight important
features or observations on the graph. These additional elements should be clearly visible
and aligned with the 1mm grid to maintain accuracy and organization.
• Maintain a neat and organized graph: Ensure that the graph is visually appealing by utilizing
the 1mm gridlines to align data points, labels, and additional elements consistently. Avoid
overcrowding the graph and focus on presenting the data clearly and effectively.
 8
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
5. Academic Referencing: Step By Step Guide

This guide is tailored for students immersed in practical reports, aiming to demystify the intricate
landscape of academic referencing. This guide comprehensively explores referencing as a vital aspect
of scholarly writing, covering various citation styles and offering insights to sidestep common pitfalls.
The objective is to enhance the precision of academic endeavors through improved referencing
practices.

I.
 Finding Reliable References:

In the quest for academic excellence, a key starting point is gathering reliable references. These
references, which include academic journals, books, and trusted sources, form the foundation for
insightful research and well-crafted academic work. Carefully choosing these references not only
strengthens the credibility of the work but also ensures a thorough understanding of the subject. This
section focuses on the important process of finding and selecting trustworthy references.

• Google Scholar
To utilize Google Scholar for finding academic journals, begin by entering relevant keywords
related to your topic into the search bar. Google Scholar will then generate a list of scholarly
articles, including journal publications. When reviewing the results, pay attention to the article
titles, authors, and publication sources. Clicking on a specific article will provide more details,
including an abstract, author information, and the publication venue. To access the full text of
an article, look for links such as “PDF” or “Full-Text” on the right side of the entry.
Additionally, explore the ‘Cited by’ and ‘Related articles’ features to discover additional
relevant sources.

• ScienceDirect

Navigating ScienceDirect to discover relevant journals involves a systematic approach. Firstly,

access the ScienceDirect platform through your institutional account or directly on the
website. Utilize the search bar to input specific keywords related to your research. Refine
your search results by applying filters such as publication date, document type, or subject area
to pinpoint relevant journals. Browse through the abstracts, keywords, and authors of the
articles to gauge their suitability. For a more targeted search, leverage advanced search
options and explore ScienceDirect’s browsing features within specific subject categories.
Once you identify pertinent journals, delve into their contents to extract valuable insights for
your research. Finally, make use of ScienceDirect’s citation features to trace related articles
and ensure a comprehensive exploration of your chosen topic.

• PubMed for Chemistry

Specialized Search: Target chemistry-specific articles on PubMed.

• IEEE Xplore for Physics

Access IEEE Xplore for physics-focused research, Filter results by document type and
publication year.

• ResearchGate

9
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
• Library Databases
Explore databases through the university library, Check the university library website for
valuable resources.
University of Sri Jayewardenepura - Library

• BookFinder
Use BookFinder to compare book prices across platforms, Check for e-book options for
convenience.
 •
Open

Access Repositories
Access arXiv.org and DOAJ.org for open-access content, Verify the reputation of the
repository for credibility.

II. Websites to Avoid as References

When compiling your reference list, avoid the following types of websites, ensuring the exclusion of
direct search engines like Google Scholar

• Wikipedia
Wikipedia is not suitable for academic referencing primarily because of its open editing
structure, which compromises the reliability of information. The dynamic nature of
Wikipedia, frequent updates, lack of authoritative citations, and an encyclopedic writing style
further limit its credibility for academic purposes.

• Personal Blogs
Stick to official publications or blogs written by experts. Personal blogs might not be accurate
or well-researched.
 • Social Media
Info on Twitter, YouTube or Facebook might not be deep enough or accurate

• News Websites Without Verification

News websites without proper verification are unsuitable for referencing in academic work.
These sources often lack rigorous fact-checking and editorial oversight, making them
susceptible to misinformation and inaccuracies.

• Commercial Websites Without Authority

Sites trying to sell things might not have the most reliable info. Look for sources with
authority.

• Questionable Health Website

• User-Generated Content Platforms

• Outdated Sources
Make sure the info is recent. While there isn’t a universal rule specifying a particular timeline
for what qualifies as an “outdated” source, the general guideline is to prioritize recent and
relevant information, especially in rapidly evolving fields. In sciences like chemistry and
physics, where new discoveries occur frequently, it is advisable to consider sources published
within the last 5-10 years. However, the appropriateness of a source depends on the context
and

10
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
the nature of the information needed. For foundational theories or historical overviews, older
sources may still be relevant. Always check with specific guidelines provided by instructors,
publishers, or academic institutions, as they may have different expectations regarding the
acceptable timeframe for sources in a given field or assignment.

• Non-Academic Forums
Forums can have good discussions, but the info might not be checked. •
 Unreliable Research Repositories

Some places might not check research properly. Use sources with a good review process.

III. Citations and Citation Styles:

A citation serves as acknowledgment for the intellectual works supporting your research, offering due
credit and aiding in source identification. It typically includes the author’s name, date, publishing
details, journal title, or DOI. A citation style dictates the format and order of this information, along
with punctuation and formatting choices.
Choosing a Citation Style:

The choice of citation style often aligns with the academic discipline:

• APA (American Psychological Association): Used in Education, Psychology, and Sciences. •

MLA (Modern Language Association): Employed in Humanities.
• Chicago/Turabian: Common in Business, History, and Fine Arts.
• ACS (American Chemical Society): Predominant in chemistry.

IV. ACS Style Reference Listing:

1. Journal Article Citations:

Format: Author(s), Title of Article. Journal Abbreviation Year, Volume, Inclusive

Pagination. Example: Pearson, W. Platinum Theft. Ind. Eng. Chem. 1915, 7(4), pp. 358.

Pearson, W. Platinum Theft. Ind. Eng. Chem. 1915, 7(4), pp. 358.

2. Online Journal Articles:

Format: Author(s), Title of Article. Journal Abbreviation [Online] Year, Volume, Pagination.
URL (accessed Month Day, Year).
Example: García, G.; Aparicio, S.; Ullah, R.; Atilhan, M. Deep Eutectic Solvents:
Physicochemical Properties and Gas Separation Applications. Energy Fuels [Online] 2015, 29,
2616–2644. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/ef5028873 (accessed Aug 29, 2018).
García, G.; Aparicio, S.; Ullah, R.; Atilhan, M. Deep Eutectic Solvents: Physicochemical Properties
and Gas Separation Applications. Energy Fuels [Online] 2015, 29, 2616–2644.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/ef5028873 (accessed Aug 29, 2018).

11
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
3. Books:

Format: Author(s), Book Title, Edition number: Series Information (if any); Publisher: Place of
Publication, Year; Volume Number, Pagination.
Example: Browne, C.; Weeks, M. A History of the American Chemical Society,
Seventy-Five Eventful Years; American Chemical Society: Washington, D.C., 1952; pp.
425-457.
Browne, C.; Weeks, M. A History of the American Chemical Society, Seventy-Five Eventful
Years; American Chemical Society: Washington, D.C., 1952; pp. 425-457.

V. Citation Managers
Citation managers are essential tools designed to simplify the referencing process for students,
researchers, and academics. These software applications aid in efficiently collecting, organizing, and
formatting citations, ensuring accuracy and adherence to various citation styles. By automating the
generation of citations and managing references in a centralized system, citation managers streamline
academic writing, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.

• EndNote
• Mendeley
• Zotero
• RefWorks
• Citavi
 12
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.
6. Tips for Success in POM Lab

• Be prepared: Review experiment instructions and materials beforehand. • Follow safety

protocols: Wear appropriate safety gear and handle equipment with caution. • Stay attentive
and focused: Pay attention to details and follow instructions accurately. • Take accurate
measurements: Use precise measuring tools and record measurements carefully.
•
 Record detailed observations: Note any changes, reactions, or patterns observed during the
experiment.
• Collaborate effectively: Work well with lab partners, share information, and divide
responsibilities.
• Communicate findings: Discuss observations, data, and results with clarity and accuracy. •
Analyze data critically: Evaluate results, identify patterns, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Stay organized: Keep your workspace tidy and maintain clear records of procedures and
data.
• Manage time effectively: Plan your lab work to ensure tasks are completed within the
allotted time.
• Seek assistance when needed: Ask questions, seek guidance, and report any issues
promptly.
• Be proactive: Take initiative, think creatively, and troubleshoot challenges that may arise. •
Embrace the learning experience: Approach each lab session with a curious and open
mindset.

7. Lab Report Submission:

Lab reports must be submitted at the beginning of the next scheduled lab session. Late
submissions are not allowed and may result in a deduction of marks. Adhering to the
submission deadline ensures timely feedback and allows for effective incorporation of
suggestions into future experiments. By submitting reports on time, students demonstrate
professionalism and respect for the academic environment while maximizing their learning
opportunities. It is important to familiarize yourself with the lab report submission policies
outlined by your instructor to ensure compliance and academic integrity.

13
©Department of Science for Technology, USJ.