1. Lab Reports E. Santi

2. Structure of a Lab Report 1.Introduction 2.Theory 3.Experimental 4.Results / Discussion 5.Conclusions 6.References

3. 1. Introduction The introduction is exactly what it says. It is a paragraph or series of paragraphs that introduce the reader to the subject The introduction presents basic background material, the history of the problem, or introduces most of the major references

4. 2. Theory (or Background) Explains the theory behind the work and is the proper place for the mathematics Contains the general equations that describe the system under study

5. 3. Experimental Explanations for the apparatus, instruments, calibrations, etc. Expected error and repeatability can be introduced

6. 4. Results / Discussion All results of the lab activity are reported here This includes simulation and experimental results Appropriate tabular and graphical form should be used All x-axis and y-axis scales should be clearly indicated (e.g., current probe measurements y-axis scale)

7. 4. Results / Discussion - Cont It is encouraged that you mark the scope captures with a pen showing relevant features or noting numerical values of significance. It is understood that for a formal report you would use some kind of CAD program to mark the figures

8. 4. Results / Discussion - Cont All results should be discussed and compared with theoretical predictions and simulation results Discrepancies should be noted and an attempt to explain them should be made Are these the results you expect? Why? Do you notice discrepancies? What is causing these?

9. 5. Conclusions The conclusions should be a specific and factual summary of the report The conclusions should tie-up loose ends from the previous portions of the report such as speculation and questions, and analysis of the error.

10. References and Plagiarism Reference the sources you use, especially for the theory section The theory section should be YOUR description showing YOUR understanding It is not acceptable to copy verbatim from a source, not even as a quote

11. Common Pitfalls Usually formatting and figure imports are fine Frequently the theory section is weak Sometimes simulation results are not shown Frequently the discussion is very incomplete You will get points off for what is missing from the report (theory and discussion, simulation results) If you have doubts, discuss with TAs or instructor