How to Write a Lab Report
IMRaD structure, the parts that get graded hardest, and how to write methodology without writing a procedure manual.
What you'll learn
- IMRaD structure (Intro, Methods, Results, Discussion)
- What methods sections actually need
- Distinguishing results from discussion
- Citation in lab reports
The mistake most students make
Methods sections become procedure manuals ('I added 5mL...'). What's needed: enough detail for reproduction, no more.
How Fennie helps
Fennie reviews lab report drafts against the IMRaD rubric and points to which section is underweight or off-topic.
Step by step
- 01Introduction: state the question, hypothesis, and significance — 1-2 paragraphs
- 02Methods: enough detail for reproduction, no more
- 03Results: data and figures only, no interpretation
- 04Discussion: what the results mean, limitations, future directions
- 05Cite primary literature, not the lab manual
FAQ
Past or present tense?
Past for methods and results; present for established knowledge and discussion.
How long should it be?
Most undergraduate lab reports: 4-8 pages. Longer for advanced labs with substantial discussion.
Does Fennie review lab reports?
Yes — Fennie reviews against the IMRaD rubric and points to specific sections that need work.
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