How to Record an Observation in Your Lab Book

Remember that your lab book has to be the final word on your science experiment and the judges who will grade your science fair project are going to want to see it. Your goal must be to keep a lab book that is so complete that an expert in your field of science would be able to understand exactly what you did and what results you got simply be reading through it.

In fact, a scientist's motto has to be "If it isn't in the log book, it didn't happen." I strongly suggest you WRITE THAT DOWN at the bottom of page one in quotation marks for two reasons; first as a constant reminder to you of one of the most important cannons of the laboratory; and second because it will really impress the judges. (Trust me!)

Here are a few tips that will help you end up with a real scientist's log book.

First, when writing down an observation, pretend that you are describing what you are observing to a knowledgeable friend over the telephone. If your description is clear enough for your friend to know exactly what you have done, it will be clear enough for the science fair judges as well.

Second, use the squares on the graph paper (is your lab book constructed of bound graph paper, or did you miss that tip?) to form your data tables, and carefully label the columns with very clearly lettered labels. Also, use a ruler to trace the lines that define the table. Don't draw these lines by hand. Nothing irritates a science fair judge more sloppy data tables or not being able to understand why you took the data you did.

Third, clearly label each page with the appropriate page number. And don't forget to date each page! (Note, if you are developing invention that you think you might want to patent, then you need to date and sign each page and write all your notes in pen. This is a legal method of establish priority for you should someone else ever claim that they invented your product first.)

Fourth, set aside the first page of your lab book as the table of contents and make sure every new topic is clearly listed there on page one.

Fifth,if you use a spreadsheet program to generate your graphs (and I strongly suggest you do so), make sure you paste copies into your lab book with a caption the clearly explains what information the graph displays.

Finally, as in all things, neatness counts. A well organized lab book suggests a well organized mind and a well organized experiment. An illegible unkempt notebook is sure to get you docked come judging time.

Dr. Shawn

For more FREE help, visit my Super Science Project Support Site. Check out my collection of killer science fair project downloads. Are you running out of time? Check out my Desperation Science Projects for complete science project instructions that can be carried out in just one day! Or, better, have a complete science experiment sent directly to your home for professional results fast! And, of course, you'll find plenty of science project ideas at my science project idea bank, or my student-driven science project idea exchange.

Comments

[moncler coats]

I thank thee that I am none of the wheels of power but I am one with the living creatures that are crushed by it.

[moncler jacket]

I follow you VIA GFC and I love your blog!