Proper Lab Notebook Keeping

One essential aspect of working in the laboratory is maintaining an accurate and updated record of the experiment using a lab notebook. The lab notebook is essential in both academia and in industry, as it not only provides you with a record of exactly what was performed, but it also serves as a legal document that proves ownership and originality of research.

It is essential that you use a bound carbonless notebook so that the copy can be removed and submitted to the instructor. You must always write in pen, never in pencil. Prior to starting the experiment, you must generate a pre-lab report in your lab notebook.

To do this, you must first read the procedure thoroughly and determine the objective of the experiment. Then, you'll write down all of the background information needed to understand the experiment and protocol.

Next, you must write the procedure steps while including clarification of complicated steps and calculations of values you may need. Simply copying the protocol will not suffice. Creating a flow chart may be necessary to help you.

You will also write out all balanced chemical reactions and determine theoretical yields in advance and identify the physical properties of all materials that you will use. Possibly the most important step is to identify the safety risks of all reactants, products, and solvents used. These hazards must be obtained from the Material Safety Data Sheet, or MSDS, for each substance.

When you are prepared to run the experiment, you will first write down the date and the lab experiment being done. Then, record all steps as they are performed and include exact measurements, such as volume, temperature, and weight. Always keep your notebook close by and record information immediately. Never scratch notes on paper towels or scrap paper.

If a mistake is made, it should be crossed out using a single line and the correct information written immediately. Be sure to always include any relevant observations, like a temperature change, color change, or pH change. Always include all observations and data points, even outliers and failed experiments. Never remove pages or data points in an attempt to hide mistakes.

When you are finished with the experiment and finished with your record-keeping, cross out the unused portion of the last page and then sign and date all pages. In this lab, you will practice notebook-keeping skills by performing the nitration of methyl benzoate. It is essential that you maintain an accurate and thorough record of your experiment in order to properly analyze your results when finished.