In the procedure section, it is important to have a clear circuit diagram with component values and a brief, but accurate description of each step taken.
1. Tables for both the data taken and results obtained are a good idea whenever possible as it makes comparison much easier. In the cases where you will be comparing theoretically calculated with measured values, it is best to make the comparison quantitative by calculating percentage differences.
2. While analyzing the results, it is a good idea not to truncate values to only the estimated number of significant figures since this can cause round-off errors. However, when the final results are presented, they should be quoted with the correct number of significant figures, based on your estimates.
3. The conclusions may be stated in point form as long as each point consists of clearly written sentences.
4. Any graphs required in the labs must be completed on properly ruled graph paper with a title at the top, and have each axis clearly labeled. The axis labeling consists of: the quantity represented, the units used, and the unit markings. The curves drawn should not be straight lines connecting point to point. They should be "best fit curves" which seem to provide the best average fit to the data.
The main purposes of these digital electronics engineering labs are to:
a) Verify and apply some of the theoretical concepts learned in class;
b) Become familiar with items of digital boards, and electrical measurements.
Your comments and conclusions should reflect these general objectives. The reports must be legibly written and contain acceptable grammar. Always use the past, passive tense, not the imperative (e.g. "the circuit was connected", not "connect the circuit" or "we connected the circuit").
LAB REPORT FORMAT
1. Title Page - your name
- date lab performed
- title of lab and course number
2. Purpose - as in lab guide
3. Pre-lab calculations - (when applicable)
4. Apparatus - a diagram complete with component values and a list of equipment used
5. Procedure - short but accurate description of what was done written in the past tense
6. Analysis/Results - data obtained and analysis performed
- graphs or tables of results where appropriate
7. Conclusion - discussion of results and quantitative comparisons. Comment on discrepancies and discuss sources of error
- what was concluded from lab work and what was learned
- summary of results and possible ways to improve measurements
A good lab report will provide a readable and self explanatory account of what was done and the results obtained.