WRITING UP EXPERIMENTS

The write- up of an experiment should follow the format outlined below:

TITLE (and Exp. Number)

Abstract
Abstract is a summary of the report. An abstract should represent as much as possible of the
quantitative and qualitative information in the document and reflect its reasoning. A detailed
abstract usually addresses these questions in 100-250 words:
• Why did you do this experiment?
• What did you do, and how?
• What did you find?
• What do your findings mean?

Introduction
This should be a brief statement that outlines the experiment's objective(s) and provides context
information to the reader. This may also include a figure depicting the experimental setup, if
applicable. The introduction also provides the reader with justification for why the work was
carried out.

Materials (or Equipment)

This can be a simple list with short description of the equipment used in the experiments.

Experimental Procedure
In sequential order, describe how you carried out the experiment. Explain all steps in the order
they actually happened, using a simple paragraph structure. If you've documented all of the
steps involved in carrying out the experiment, another colleague may be able to replicate it.

Results
It is important that all required data for analysis is clearly presented, whether it was recorded
or retrieved from the script. The results should consist of calculations, graphs and tables and
you must use the calculations, graphs and tables to explain the results from your
experiment. In addition, the graphical representation (graphs and tables) must be labelled
clearly.
Example:
Figure 1: Effect of X on Y.
Table 1: Density of X at various tempertaure.
Tables
These should have a clear title; each column should be labelled and have the correct units. Keep
in mind that you will also need to record errors associated with your measurements so make
sure you have enough space for these.
Example:
Table #: Measurement the Length of a Wooden Block
Measurement Number Length (mm) Error (mm)
1 30.1 0.1
2 30.0 0.1
3 30.1 0.1
Average ……….. ………..

Graphs
These should have a title and the axes should be clearly labeled with the symbol, or name, of
the property being measured as well as the units.
Use a ruler to draw axes and where appropriate straight-line fits. Data marks should be clear
and not too large (use a x (times) or + (plus) symbol not a . (dot)). Error should be included in
your raw data and error bars should be drawn using a ruler.

Discussion and Conclusions

In this section you should ensure that you have answered all the question asked of you in the
text. It should also be mentioned if any aspect of the experiment was problematic, such as due
to unexpected experimental difficulties. Finally, you should present any calculated values
requested (together with the working) as well as estimates the associated errors, and compare
them to the expected values. You should address the likely causes of error and comment about
how reasonable your answer/finding is.
Conclusions
The conclusion in most undergraduate laboratory reports is usually very brief. Additionally,
the conclusion can also be used to express your views on the weakness of the experimental
design (if there is any!), or what is the implication of your conclusion.