Note:This file is also available via Canvas Files. Students are also strongly encouraged to
check out the more detailed “FORMAL_REPORT_INFORMATION” file and a sample
formal lab report, both available via Canvas Files.
FORMAL LAB REPORT, General
A formal lab report is required in conjunction with some of the experiments in each
chemistry course. It is your chance to demonstrate to your professor or TA how well you
understand the experiment and the chemical principles involved. A formal report is different
than a term paper. It should be written in a scientific style, which is not the same style used
for English or philosophy papers.
The keys to effective technical writing are organization, brevity, clarity, and an appreciation
of the needs of the reader. You must write clearly and be thorough, but concise. Do not
ramble. The best way to avoid rambling is to first prepare an outline of the report and stick
to it. Always use complete sentences. Bulleted lists are okay in a lab notebook but are
unacceptable in a formal report. Formal reports must be typed. Use 1.5 line spacing, 1-inch
margins, 12 pt font and 8.5×11 inch paper. Only use third person, past tense. Also, proofread
well.
While report sheets may be a joint effort, formal reports must be individually written.
FORMAL LAB REPORT PRACTICE – Conclusion
The purpose of the Conclusion section is to summarize the pertinent concepts discussed in
the Result & Discussion section. Always begin your Conclusion by clearly stating your
results and the “goodness” or significance of your results, and relating them to ideas
presented in the introduction. In other words, if the objective of the study was to determine
the percent calcium carbonate in an unknown sample, you should restate the percentage, with
its uncertainty, in this Conclusion section.
Important observations may go in this section as well. Discuss the significance of the results.
When possible, compare your results with literature values. Discuss significant errors and
suggest improvements to the procedure or possible ideas for additional experiments that
could further support your conclusion.
Then make a concluding statement(s) and relate your conclusion to the ideas presented in the
introduction. Note: Stating that “overall the experiment went well” or that “I learned how to
use a piece of equipment” are not strong conclusions.
The conclusion is not to be a lengthy discourse. One paragraph (about four to seven
sentences) is the amount to be presented in conclusion.
Assignment: Practice writing a “Conclusion” section on the lab specified in
the syllabus and submit on the date indicated on the syllabus. Should be typed
in word document and submit electronically!
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