1. Follow a sensible format to keep your report neat and well-organized. A preferred format is given below.

    I. Abstract: Present a very brief statement of the goal of the experiment and the main experimental technique employed. Pretend you are writing up your findings for submission in a scientific journal, perhaps a journal of undergraduate physics research. Do not begin with the phrase "The purpose of this lab is to..." or the phrase "In this lab we...". Always include a brief statement of the results obtained. The abstract should not exceed ~10 sentences, and may be as short as two sentences. The point of an abstract is to give the would-be reader the most concise statement possible of what the paper is about, so (s)he can decide if it is interesting enough to be worth reading.

   Example of a good abstract:
"The visible line spectrum of hydrogen was measured using a grating spectrometer and a hydrogen gas discharge source. Lines were observed at wavelengths l = 6565Å (red), l = 4343Å (blue-green), and l = 4140Å (violet). The predicted line at l = 4200Å (blue) was not observed, possibly because of its low intensity. The wavelengths of the observed lines are in good agreement with the predictions of Bohr's model."

    Example of a bad abstract:
"The purpose of this lab is to learn how to use a grating spectrometer. We observed some of the lines predicted in Bohr's model and obtained 5% error."

    II. Procedure: Please describe only unusual or innovative procedures followed in your experiment, not described in the lab handout. It is not necessary to reiterate the procedure section from the handout.

    III. Data: Present all raw data neatly, if possible in chart or tabular form. Always give the units and take care that the number of significant figures used is correct. Be sure each chart or data table is given a good title, so it is clear what the data is referring to. When possible, estimate the error in a measured quantity.

    IV. Analysis: Present all calculations in full detail. If a number of similar, repetitive calculations are done, only show one example. Describe carefully each new equation introduced, and define each variable used. (Do not, for instance, write v = vo + a t without defining what the symbols v, vo, a, and t refer to).

    V. Questions: Answer all questions concisely in well-written sentences.

2. Lab partners can share data freely - but only with those actually present in lab and participating in the data collection. If your lab partner is absent for any reason, (s)he must come in and collect data independently. Everyone is encouraged to work together on calculations and the questions. However, your final report must be your own unique product written by yourself in your own words, not by copying or editing your lab partner's words. It is a violation of the honor code to share any portion of your report with others, especially by email.

3. You should use appropriate computer software - Excel, Mathematica, or Kaleidagraph - for any plots included in your lab report. All plots must have a title and the axes labeled. Be sure axis labels make clear what is being plotted, and in which units. See the lab instructor if you need help with graphing software.

4. Lab reports should be above all clear and concise. The goal is to make the report as brief as possible, while still presenting all your work in an understandable fashion. Coping with this apparent paradox is key to good scientific writing.

5. Please submit a typed (not hand-written) copy of your lab report by 4pm Friday. Late reports will be penalized 20% per business day.