The procedure is where you explain to the reader how you obtained the data that you will show in your data section.
Your Procedure Should Include:
- An explanation of the setup of your experiment.
- An explanation of how to take the measurements that got you the data that is being presented in your data section.
Helpful Hints:
- Use a diagram to show your setup. It is usually much easier than explaining it in words.
- Take notes on the steps you are doing as you do the experiment.
- Look back at your procedure after doing your data section. Looking at your data tables will allow you to make sure your procedure explained how to get all of the measured data from the lab.
-You do not need a materials list, nor do you need to explain how you acquired all your materials. When you say "A triple beam balance was used to mass the metal cart." Assume the reader has the intelligence to know this means a triple beam balance is needed, and where to find it.
Common Mistakes:
- Including data in your procedure. You should be able to write the procedure before you even take your data. So measured values have no place in the procedure.
-Writing the procedure in a step by step list. It should be in paragraph form.
Next Section: Data