LAB REPORT FORMAT FOR AP BIOLOGY
Title: It should be centered on the page and it identifies the name of the lab activity as given in the lab
protocol. The title of graphs should be written to reflect what the graph shows.
Purpose: The purpose is the reason for doing the experiment. Many times the introduction in the first
couple of paragraphs will provide the background information needed for one to arrive at a purpose.
Hypothesis: A trial solution suggested for a scientific problem, subject to experimental evidence; a
hypothesis predicts what the data will show. In some of the labs that we do in AP Biology,an hypothesis
may not be necessary.
Variables: IV – Specify the independent variable (the variable controlled or manipulated by the
experimenter) for the experiment.
Values – State the values (range, increments, etc.) for your IV.
DV – What is the dependent variable (the variable that you measure or observe in reference to
the independent variable).
Materials: This section includes all the equipment or materials that are required to perform the
investigation. If there are changes in the lab that are verbally given to you, make sure that you note them in
the report. Must be single spaced and numbered as 1., 2., 3., etc.
Procedure: Use the same instructions as for Materials. This section may be included with above as
“Materials and Methods.” Must be single spaced and numbered as 1., 2., etc.
Results/Data: This is a record of the information that you collect during the experiment. Include charts,
observations, drawings, graphs, tables, etc. When graphing always place the independent variable on the
X-axis. Charts, graphs, tables must have a title which informs the reader as to what the graph, table, etc.
entails. Tables are numbered consecutively as Table 1, Table 2, etc. Graphs are designated as Figures
and are also recorded consecutively as Fig. 1, Fig. 2, etc. Sample calculations should be included and give
the correct formula for all sample calculations.
Discussion/Analysis: In this section, you always include a brief discussion of your data and the
significance of your results. If your results did not come out as expected, give some explanation as to why.
You also analyze the data usually by answering questions from the lab protocol. These questions are
designed to help you better understand, and think through your data; as well as to help you arrive at a
conclusion. The answers that you provide should be expressed in complete sentences and numbered as
given to you in the protocol. These questions and answers should follow your brief discussion. Use a
separate subheading for the questions. Some statistical analysis may be required.
Conclusion: A statement of fact based on the lab work that you have done, as you keep the purpose and
the hypothesis in mind. You must answer the question: was my hypothesis correct or incorrect or verified
or not verified? If there was not a required hypothesis, the conclusion should summarize the purpose and
explain what was learned by the lab experience.
Title Page: Include a title page with each formal lab report. See Dr. Uston for format of this page
HOW TO WRITE A CONCLUSION
1. Reread and restate your purpose. What questions are you trying to answer?
2. Look at the data. What does it tell you?
3. How does the data help you to achieve your stated purpose?
4. Are there variables that took place that influenced your data? If so, then state how these variables
helped you to arrive at your conclusion.
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TIPS ON WRITING A GOOD LAB REPORT
Quality, not quantity is important.
Even though you may be working with others when conducting the experiment, you are expected to think for yourself.
Papers that are identical are not acceptable.
Be honest in reporting your results.
Be neat! Typed lab reports are recommended.
Write your name and class period on each page of the report, including the title page.
If hand written, the paper must be in blue or black ink only; and make sure that all sections in the report are titled and
underlined or italicized.
Make sure that all drawings, charts, tables, and graphs are properly labeled and have a title.
All work must be in complete sentences, unless otherwise specified.
Include sample calculations when appropriate, which include formulas, equations, etc.
Staple the pages of the lab report together before submitting for evaluation.
Remember late papers will not receive full credit. Check your syllabus on this fact.
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