Lab Notebook Setup

1 - Ask a Question

The scientific method starts when you ask a question about something that you observe: How, What, When, Who, Which, Why, or Where? For a science fair project, your question should typically be something you can measure, preferably with a number, and should be something that is interesting and important to you.

Task #1D: Lab Notebook Setup

With any science or engineering project, it is important to document your work in a lab notebook.

1. Read the resource about how to create great Science and Engineering Project Laboratory Notebooks to learn why it is important to document your work in a lab notebook.
2. Answer the following questions to check your learning:
   1. True or False: It is important to use a lab notebook for a science project to document every step for accuracy and reference.
      True

      False
      Correct! Using a lab notebook helps document every step of your project accurately for future reference.
      Nice try! Review the section on why documenting every step is crucial for accuracy and future reference.
   2. What should you do if you encounter an error or a blank page in your lab notebook?
      Remove the page

      Ignore it and move on

      Put a large 'x' through the area or page

      Start a new notebook
      Excellent! Crossing out errors ensures clarity without removing important information.
      Nice try! Refer to the guidelines on handling errors and blank pages to maintain clear and accurate records.
   3. Which of the following is NOT a recommended step in setting up your lab notebook?
      Labeling your notebook with your name and contact information

      Using ink to make entries

      Numbering the pages

      Leaving the first few pages blank
      Well done! Leaving the first few pages blank is not recommended because it can cause confusion and disrupt the continuity of your records.
      Nice try! Review the steps for setting up your lab notebook to understand the essential practices.
   4. True or False: It is important to carry your lab notebook with you at all times during your project work.
      True

      False
      Correct! Keeping your lab notebook with you ensures you record all details immediately, avoiding loss of information.
      Nice try! Check the importance of carrying your lab notebook with you to ensure all details are recorded immediately.
3. Use the Getting Started with Your Science Laboratory Notebook section of the above resource to set up your own lab notebook. It may help you to summarize these tips on the inside cover of your notebook for future reference. Follow steps 1-5 on this list and take pictures to insert here. On the first page, title it ‘Project Question’ and record the following information from above:
   • Where you found your project idea
   • Your project question
   • Why your project question is important to you
   • Safety information
   Turn in your lab notebook to your teacher OR take pictures and insert links to them below:
   Link to a picture of the front of your lab notebook labeled with key information:
   Link to a picture of your table of contents:
   Link to a picture of page 1 (be sure to include a page number and the date):
   NOTE: Moving forward, you will want to document all of your project work in your lab notebook.