Laboratory Write Up Example: The Complete Guide to Writing A+ Lab Reports (2026)
Writing a lab report can feel overwhelming—especially when you're staring at a blank page after hours of experimentation. But here's the truth: a well-structured laboratory write up isn't just about documenting what happened. It's about communicating your scientific thinking clearly enough that someone else could replicate your work.
What Is a Laboratory Write Up?
A laboratory write up (also called a lab report) is a formal document that describes an experiment you conducted. According to the University of Toronto Writing Center, it's "the most frequent kind of document written in engineering and science."
But it's more than just a summary. A proper lab write up demonstrates:
- Your understanding of the scientific method
- Your ability to analyze and interpret data
- Your skill in communicating complex ideas clearly
The 7 Essential Sections of a Lab Report
Every strong laboratory write up follows a standardized structure. Here's whatMcGill University Library andScribbr's academic writing guide recommend:
1. Title Page
Your title should be specific and informative—not vague. According toClemson University's Writing Center, a good title includes the key variables being studied.
Bad Example: "Chemistry Lab Report"
Good Example: "The Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Enzyme Catalysis in Amylase"
2. Abstract
The abstract is a standalone summary of your entire report.McGill's guide states it should summarize the hypothesis, briefly describe methods, state key results, and mention the main conclusion.
3. Introduction
The introduction sets the stage. According toVanderbilt University's Writing Studio, you should state the topic clearly, provide background theory, explain the purpose, and state your hypothesis with rationale.
4. Materials and Methods
This section must be detailed enough for replication.Reed College's Online Writing Lab emphasizes using past tense, passive voice, and specific measurements.
5. Results
Present your data objectively—no interpretation yet. According toMonash University's Academic Success guide, use tables for raw numerical data, graphs to show trends, and reference each figure in the text.
6. Discussion
This is where you interpret your results.Phoenix College's LibGuide recommends addressing whether results support your hypothesis, how findings compare to published research, sources of error, and what you'd do differently.
7. References
Always cite your sources using the format your instructor requires (APA, MLA, or CSE).
Laboratory Write Up Examples by Subject
Biology Lab Report Example
The Hamilton College sample demonstrates a classic experiment on blowfly taste perception with clear hypothesis statement, detailed methodology, statistical analysis, and connection to broader concepts.
Chemistry Lab Report Example
Pittsburg State University's organic chemistry sample shows proper chemical equation formatting, yield calculations, spectroscopy data presentation, and error analysis.
Physics Lab Report Example
Baylor University's physics sample illustrates uncertainty analysis, graphing with error bars, comparison to theoretical predictions, and use of significant figures.
5 Common Lab Report Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Writing Without a Clear Purpose
Problem: Jumping straight into methods without explaining why the experiment matters.
Fix: Start your introduction by answering: "What question does this experiment answer?"
2. Copying the Lab Manual
Problem: Plagiarizing procedure text directly from the handout.
Fix: Rewrite in your own words, past tense, and add specific details from your actual experience.
3. Confusing Results with Discussion
Problem: Interpreting data in the Results section.
Fix: Results = what happened. Discussion = what it means. Keep them separate.
4. Missing Error Analysis
Problem: Ignoring sources of experimental error.
Fix: Every experiment has limitations. Discuss systematic vs. random errors and their impact.
5. Last-Minute Writing
Problem: Writing the entire report the night before it's due.
Fix: Take detailed notes during the lab, then draft each section within 48 hours.
Step-by-Step: How to Write Your Lab Report
Step 1: Take Detailed Notes During the Lab
Record all observations, note exact measurements with units, document any deviations from the procedure, and sketch diagrams of your setup.
Step 2: Organize Your Data First
Before writing, create tables with all raw data, graphs visualizing key relationships, and calculations with clear steps shown.
Step 3: Draft Sections in This Order
- Results (while data is fresh)
- Methods (straightforward to write)
- Discussion (interpret your results)
- Introduction (now you know where your story goes)
- Abstract (summarize everything)
- Title (make it specific)
Step 4: Revise and Proofread
Read your report aloud. If a sentence sounds clunky, rewrite it.
The C.L.E.A.R. Framework for Lab Reports
Use this mnemonic to check your work before submitting:
| Letter | Criterion | Question to Ask |
|---|---|---|
| C | Concise | Is every sentence necessary? |
| L | Logical | Do sections flow naturally? |
| E | Evidence-based | Is every claim supported by data? |
| A | Accurate | Are measurements and calculations correct? |
| R | Replicable | Could someone repeat your experiment from your description? |
FAQs
How long should a lab report be?
Most undergraduate lab reports range from 5-10 pages, depending on the complexity of the experiment.
Can I use first person in a lab report?
It depends on your instructor. Monash University notes that many modern style guides now accept "we measured" instead of "it was measured." When in doubt, ask.
What's the difference between a lab report and a lab notebook?
A lab notebook contains real-time, informal notes during the experiment. A lab report is a formal, polished document written afterward that follows a standardized structure.