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a student standing in front of a blackboard full of physics and Math formulas.

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      • Writing Lab Reports
        • Overview
        • Understanding Hypotheses and Predictions
        • Introduction
        • Methods
        • Results
        • Tables & Figures
        • Discussion
        • Additional Elements
        • Writing Strategies
        • Writing Science
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TRENTU.CA / Academic Skills / How To Guides / How to Succeed in Math and Science / Writing Lab Reports

Writing Lab Reports

Table of Contents

This website provides a section-by-section guide to writing a lab report and includes instruction and examples for content, structure, and writing strategies. Although the focus is on lab reports written in the biological sciences, most aspects are applicable to all science disciplines. We will continue to develop this site and expand resources for other disciplines. Click on the links below to visit the guide sections. For a closer look at writing style in the sciences, visit our Science Writing webpage.

Why and how to write a lab report

  • Overview

Major sections: IMRAD

  • Introduction
    • Hypotheses and Predictions
  • Methods
  • Results
  • Table and Figures
  • Discussion

Additional sections and requirements

  • Title
  • Abstract
  • References
  • Appendices

Report writing strategies: a little forethought goes a long way!

  • Using an outline
  • Writing sequence

How To Guides

  • Transition to University - Advice for First Year
  • Level Up: Resources for Upper-Year Students
  • How Do I Protect My Academic Integrity?
  • How to Study
  • How to Learn Online
  • How to Manage Your Time
  • How to Write in University
  • How to Succeed in Math and Science
    • Writing Lab Reports
      • Overview
      • Understanding Hypotheses and Predictions
      • Introduction
      • Methods
      • Results
      • Tables & Figures
      • Discussion
      • Additional Elements
      • Writing Strategies
      • Writing Science
    • Presenting Data
    • Math Basics
    • Statistics Basics
    • Using Excel: Basics and Beyond
    • Using R and R Studio
  • How to Use Sources
  • How to Edit Your Writing
  • Academic Skills Online Resources Index
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